bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Woody encroachment of grasslands: Near‐surface thermal implications assessed through the lens of an astronomical event
Authors: Tanner Evan P. , Fuhlendorf Samuel D. , Polo John A. , Peterson Jacob M.
Published: August 2021

Temperature has long been understood as a fundamental condition that influences ecological patterns and processes. Heterogeneity in landscapes that is structured by ultimate (climate) and proximate (vegetation, topography, disturbance events, and land use) forces serve to shape thermal patterns across multiple spatio‐temporal scales. Thermal landscapes of grasslands are likely shifting as woody encroachment fragments these ecosystems and studies quantifying thermal fragmentation in grassland systems resulting from woody encroachment are lacking. We utilized the August 21st, 2017, solar eclipse to mimic a rapid sunrise/sunset event across a landscape characterized as a grassland to experimentally manipulate levels of solar radiation in the system. We then quantified changes in near‐surface temperatures resulting from changes in solar radiation levels during the eclipse. Temperatures were monitored across three grassland pastures in central Oklahoma that were characterized by different densities (low, medium, and high) of Juniperus virginiana to understand the impact of woody encroachment on diurnal temperature patterns and thermal heterogeneity in a grassland's thermal landscape. The largest temperature range across sites that occurred during the eclipse was in the mixed grass vegetation. Similarly, the largest change in thermal heterogeneity occurred in the grassland with the lowest amount of woody encroachment. Thermal heterogeneity was lowest in the highly encroached grassland, which also experienced the lowest overall change in thermal heterogeneity during the eclipse. Time series models suggested that solar radiation was the most influential factor in predicting changes in thermal heterogeneity as opposed to ambient temperature alone. These results suggest that highly encroached grasslands may experience lower diurnal variability of temperatures at the cost of a decrease in the overall thermal heterogeneity of that landscape. It appears that fine‐scale spatio‐temporal thermal variation is largely driven by solar radiation, which can be influenced by vegetation heterogeneity inherent within a landscape.
Functional traits driving species role in the structure of terrestrial vertebrate scavenger networks
Authors: Sebastián‐González Esther , Morales‐Reyes Zebensui , Botella Francisco , Naves‐Alegre Lara , Pérez‐García Juan M. , Mateo‐Tomás Patricia , Olea Pedro P. , Moleón Marcos , Barbosa Jomar Magalhães , Hiraldo Fernando , Arrondo Eneko , Donázar José A. , Cortés‐Avizanda Ainara , Selva Nuria , Lambertucci Sergio A. , Bhattacharjee Aishwarya , Brewer Alexis L. , Abernethy Erin F. , Turner Kelsey L. , Beasley James C. , DeVault Travis L. , Gerke Hannah C. , Rhodes Olin E. , Ordiz Andrés , Wikenros Camilla , Zimmermann Barbara , Wabakken Petter , Wilmers Christopher C. , Smith Justine A. , Kendall Corinne J. , Ogada Darcy , Frehner Ethan , Allen Maximilian L. , Wittmer Heiko U. , Butler James R. A. , du Toit Johan T. , Margalida Antoni , Oliva‐Vidal Pilar , Wilson David , Jerina Klemen , Krofel Miha , Kostecke Rich , Inger Richard , Per Esra , Ayhan Yunus , Sancı Mehmet , Yılmazer Ünsal , Inagaki Akino , Koike Shinsuke , Samson Arockianathan , Perrig Paula L. , Spencer Emma E. , Newsome Thomas M. , Heurich Marco , Anadón José D. , Buechley Evan R. , Gutiérrez‐Cánovas Cayetano , Elbroch L. Mark , Sánchez‐Zapata José A.
Published: August 2021

Species assemblages often have a non‐random nested organization, which in vertebrate scavenger (carrion‐consuming) assemblages is thought to be driven by facilitation in competitive environments. However, not all scavenger species play the same role in maintaining assemblage structure, as some species are obligate scavengers (i.e., vultures) and others are facultative, scavenging opportunistically. We used a database with 177 vertebrate scavenger species from 53 assemblages in 22 countries across five continents to identify which functional traits of scavenger species are key to maintaining the scavenging network structure. We used network analyses to relate ten traits hypothesized to affect assemblage structure with the “role” of each species in the scavenging assemblage in which it appeared. We characterized the role of a species in terms of both the proportion of monitored carcasses on which that species scavenged, or scavenging breadth (i.e., the species “normalized degree”), and the role of that species in the nested structure of the assemblage (i.e., the species “paired nested degree”), therefore identifying possible facilitative interactions among species. We found that species with high olfactory acuity, social foragers, and obligate scavengers had the widest scavenging breadth. We also found that social foragers had a large paired nested degree in scavenger assemblages, probably because their presence is easier to detect by other species to signal carcass occurrence. Our study highlights differences in the functional roles of scavenger species and can be used to identify key species for targeted conservation to maintain the ecological function of scavenger assemblages.
PASCAL‐based mitral valve repair in an all‐comer population: acute and mid‐term clinical results
Authors: Schlegel Philipp , Crespo López Patricia , Kreusser Michael M. , Katus Hugo A. , Frey Norbert , Geis Nicolas A. , Raake Philip W.J.
Published: August 2021

Aims

We investigated short and mid‐term safety and efficacy of the PASCAL system for percutaneous mitral valve repair (PMVr) in severe mitral regurgitation (MR) in an all‐comer population.

Methods and results

In the first consecutive 41 patients undergoing PMVr using the PASCAL system in our centre, procedural success and safety were assessed. Efficacy in improving MR and functional class were evaluated. Median patient age was 74 years, 58.5% were male patients, and median European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation Score II was 5.1%. All patients suffered from severe MR with 59% functional MR, 29% degenerative MR, and 12% of mixed aetiology MR. The technical success rate was 90%, limited by four cases where PASCAL implantation was aborted due to a prohibitive mitral gradient. On average, 1.16 PASCAL devices per patient were implanted. All patients successfully implanted with a PASCAL device were discharged with MR grade ≤ 2 and 79% with MR grade ≤ 1. Mean follow‐up was 8.7 ± 4.9 months. Ninety‐seven per cent of patients remained at MR ≤ 2 at follow‐up, which translated into a significantly improved New York Heart Association functional class as well as a significant reduction of systolic pulmonary artery pressure and brain natriuretic peptide levels. The procedure‐related rate for major adverse events was 3%. Neither early nor late single‐leaflet detachment was found. In one patient, air embolism occurred, resulting in modification of the PASCAL instructions for use.

Conclusions

Percutaneous mitral valve repair using PASCAL in a real‐world, all‐comer population was feasible and safe, resulting in a significant mid‐term reduction of MR with persistent clinical improvement.
[Tc(NO)Cl(Cp)(PPh3)] – A Technetium(I) Compound with an Unexpected Synthetic Potential
Authors: Abdulkader Abdullah , Hagenbach Adelheid , Abram Ulrich
Published: August 2021

Reactions of the chiral organometallic technetium(I) compound [Tc(NO)Cl(Cp)(PPh3)] (1 a) with phosphines and alkynes give unexpected products such as the dimeric cation [{Tc(NO)(Cp)(PPh3)}2Cl]+ (4) or the Fischer‐type carbene [Tc(NO)(Cp)(PPh3){C(OR)C2H4PPh3}]2+ (5). Both products could be isolated as PF6− salts and studied by spectroscopic methods and X‐ray diffraction. While [Tc(NO)(Cp)(PMe3)(PPh3)](PF6) (2PF6) can be obtained from 1 a, PMe3 and Ag(PF6) under ambient conditions, the synthesis of the corresponding bis‐triphenylphosphine complex [Tc(NO)(Cp)(PPh3)2](PF6) (3PF6) requires high temperatures and long reaction times. The products are stable in air.
Intraoperative pain during caesarean delivery: Incidence, risk factors and physician perception
Authors: Keltz Amir , Heesen Philip , Katz Daniel , Neuman Ido , Morgenshtein Anna , Azem Karam , Binyamin Yair , Hadar Eran , Eidelman Leonid A. , Orbach‐Zinger Sharon
Published: August 2021

Background

Intraoperative pain is a possible complication of neuraxial anaesthesia for caesarean delivery. There is little information available about its incidence, risk factors and physician perception.

Methods

Parturients undergoing spinal anaesthesia for elective caesarean delivery were enrolled. Before surgery, parturients were asked about preoperative anxiety on a verbal numerical scale (VNS), anticipated analgesic requirement, postoperative pain levels, Spielberger STATE‐TRAIT inventory index, Pain Catastrophizing Scale. After surgery, parturients were asked to answer questions (intraoperative VNS pain). The anaesthesiologist and obstetrician were asked to fill out a questionnaire asking about perceived intraoperative pain. Influence of preoperative anxiety on intraoperative pain (yes/no) was assessed using logistic regression. Mc Fadden's R2 was calculated. The agreement in physician perception of intraoperative pain with reported pain by the parturient was examined by calculating Cohen's kappa and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI).

Results

We included 193 parturients in our analysis. Incidence of intraoperative pain was 11.9%. Median intraoperative VNS pain of parturients with pain was 4.0 (1st quartile 4.0; 3rd quartile 9.0). Preoperative anxiety was not a good predictor of intraoperative pain (p‐value of β‐coefficient = 0.43, Mc Fadden's R2 = 0.01). Including further preoperative variables did not result in a good prediction model. Cohen's kappa between reported pain by parturient and by the obstetrician was 0.21 (95% CI: 0.01, 0.41) and by the anaesthesiologist was 0.3 (95% CI: 0.12, 0.48).

Conclusions

We found a substantial incidence (11.9%) of intraoperative pain during caesarean delivery. Preoperative anxiety did not predict intraoperative pain. Physicians did not accurately identify parturients’ intraoperative pain.

Significance

Intraoperative pain occurred in 11.9% and severe intraoperative pain occurred in 1.11% of parturients undergoing elective caesarean delivery under spinal anaesthesia. We did not find any preoperative variables that could reliably predict intraoperative pain. Obstetricians and anaesthesiologists underestimated the incidence of intraoperative pain in our cohort and thus, more attention must be put to parturients’ pain.
Working mechanism and method for theoretical calculation of arch–chord coupled anti‐sliding structure
Authors: Hu Guoping , Xia Yingzhi , Ruan Xiaoxue , Zheng Mingxin
Published: August 2021

With the increase in the mileage of high‐speed railways around the world, subgrade problems related to the same have been emerging in large numbers. In view of the shortcomings of slow construction speed and large disturbance caused by conventional anti‐slide piles during emergency reinforcement of subgrades, an “arch–chord coupled anti‐slide structure” is proposed in this study, based on the three‐dimensional characteristics of the subgrade creep, and its anti‐slide mechanism is analyzed; furthermore, a theoretical calculation method for the same is proposed. The results show that the arch–chord coupled anti‐sliding structure can form a coupled body containing multiple surrounded piles when subjected to thrust, thus offering a pile–soil composite structure similar to a retaining wall. This results in a large anti‐sliding force. By setting a virtual pile to regularize the layout of the structural pile, the pile internal force can be accurately computed. The findings of this study provide a theoretical basis for the analysis and design of coupled anti‐sliding structures in future.
Prefertilization Exposure of Rainbow Trout Eggs to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances to Simulate Accumulation During Oogenesis
Authors: Raine J. C. , Su S. , Lin E. , Yang Z. L. , Giesy J. P. , Jones P. D.
Published: August 2021

Aqueous film–forming foams (AFFFs) are used in firefighting and are sources of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to the environment through surface runoff and groundwater contamination at defense and transportation sites. Little is known regarding the toxicity and bioaccumulation of newer AFFF formulations containing novel PFAS. To mimic maternal transfer of PFAS, prefertilization rainbow trout eggs were exposed to three PFAS using novel methodologies. Batches of unfertilized oocytes were exposed for 3 h to 0, 0.01, 0.1, 1, or 10 µg/ml separately to perfluorooctanoic acid, perfluorohexanoic acid, or perfluorooctanesulfonic acid in either coelomic fluid or Cortland's solution. After exposure, the gametes were fertilized and rinsed with dechlorinated water. Egg yolk was aspirated from a subset of fertilized eggs for PFAS quantification. Each PFAS was detected in yolks of eggs exposed to the respective PFAS, and yolk concentrations were directly proportional to concentrations in aqueous media to which they were exposed. Exposure in coelomic fluid or Cortland's solution resulted in similar concentrations of PFAS in egg yolks. Ratios of PFAS concentrations in oocytes to concentrations in exposure media (oocyte fluid ratios) were <0.99 when exposed from 0.01 to 10 µg/ml and <0.45 when exposed from 0.1 to 10 µg/ml for both media and all three PFAS, demonstrating that the water solubility of the chemicals was relatively great. Prefertilization exposure of eggs effectively introduced PFAS into unfertilized egg yolk. This method provided a means of mimicking maternal transfer to evaluate toxicity to developing embryos from an early stage. This method is more rapid and efficient than injection of individual fertilized eggs and avoids trauma from inserting needles into eggs. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:3159–3165. © 2021 SETAC
Design and implementation of a novel real‐time unmanned aerial vehicle localization scheme based on received signal strength
Authors: Liu Tong , Zhao Hui , Yang Haojun , Zheng Kan , Chatzimisios Periklis
Published: August 2021

To accurately localize unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is one of the key issues to deal with the security threats caused by UAVs. Thus, this article proposes a UAV localization scheme that utilizes the area grid quantization and transmit power statistical calibration techniques, in which the location and transmit power of the UAV are unknown. Firstly, the adaptive discrete particle swarm optimization (ADPSO) algorithm is used to find the global optimal solution to the localization problem. A grid quantization method is proposed to discretize the value space of the traditional PSO algorithm to reduce the estimated localization time. An adaptive factor is also introduced to adjust the value of power for each iteration in the discrete particle swarm optimization (DPSO) algorithm in order to find the global optimal solution efficiently. Secondly, the fixed transmit power range is adopted to calibrate the estimated value of transmit power and the corresponding location. The prototype system comprises four anchor nodes based on a universal software radio peripheral radio frequency (USRP RF). Finally, field experiments are carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed localization scheme.
The effects of graduated driver licensing on teenage body weight
Authors: Qiu Qihua , Sung Jaesang
Published: August 2021

The graduated driver licensing (GDL) program requires teenage drivers to pass through an intermediate stage, which contains specific driving restrictions such as a night curfew or a limit on the number of teen passengers to be carried, before earning full driving privileges. Using individual data from the 1999 to 2017 biennial Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBS) combined with state‐level GDL policy variations, we estimate the effects of GDL on teenage body weight in the United States. We find that the presence of GDL raises adolescents' body mass index Z‐score and their likelihood of being overweight or obese. Among the restrictions imposed, a night curfew implemented together with a passenger restriction makes the most significant impact. These estimated effects are concentrated among states with more restrictive GDL policies. We also find that the presence of GDL reduces adolescent physical activity and heavy smoking, while increasing their time spent watching TV and milk intake, perhaps contributing to youth weight gain. An event study analysis reveals that the effects of GDL on adolescent weight increase may be transitory.
High‐frequency multi‐solute calibration using an in situUV–visible sensor
Authors: Pesántez Juan , Birkel Christian , Mosquera Giovanny M. , Peña Pablo , Arízaga‐Idrovo Viviana , Mora Emma , McDowell William H. , Crespo Patricio
Published: August 2021

Monitoring the temporal variation of solute concentrations in streams at high temporal frequency can play an important role in understanding the hydrological and biogeochemical behaviour of catchments. UV–visible spectrometry is a relatively inexpensive and easily used tool to infer those concentrations in streams at high temporal resolution. However, it is not yet clear which solutes can be modelled with such an in‐situ sensor. Here, we installed a UV–visible spectrometer probe (200–750 nm) in a high‐altitude tropical Páramo stream to record the wavelength absorbance at a 5‐min temporal resolution. For calibration, we simultaneously sampled stream water at a 4‐h frequency from February 2018 to March 2019 for subsequent laboratory analysis. Absorbance spectra and laboratory‐determined solute concentrations were used to identify the best calibration method and to determine which solute concentrations can be effectively inferred using in situ spectrometry through the evaluation of six calibration methods of different mathematical complexity. Based on the Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) and Akaike information criterion metrics, our results suggest that multivariate methods always outperformed simpler strategies to infer solute concentrations. Eleven out of 21 studied solutes (Al, DOC, Ca, Cu, K, Mg, N, Na, Rb, Si and Sr) were successfully calibrated (NSE >0.50) and could be inferred using UV–visible spectrometry even with a reduced daily sampling frequency. It is worth noting that most calibrated solutes were correlated with wavelengths (WLs) in the low range of the spectra (i.e., UV range) and showed relatively good correlation with DOC. The latter suggests that estimation of metal concentrations could be possible in other streams with a high organic load (e.g., peat dominated catchments). In situ operation of spectrometers to monitor water quality parameters at high temporal frequency (sub‐hourly) can enhance the protection of human water supplies and aquatic ecosystems as well as providing information for assessing catchment hydrological functioning.
Role of prolidase activity and oxidative stress biomarkers in unexplained infertility
Authors: Isbilen Elif , Kulaksizoglu Sevsen , Kirmizioglu Mahmut , Karuserci Komurcu Ozge , Tabur Suzan
Published: August 2021

Objective

Our aim was to explore the significance of serum prolidase enzyme activity and oxidative stress in women with unexplained infertility (UEI).

Methods

In this case‐control study (n = 160; 86 cases; 74 controls) prolidase enzyme activity and total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and vitamin E were measured in plasma using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays.

Results

Prolidase enzyme activity and TAS levels were particularly higher in the patient group (P = 0.013, P = 0.001, respectively). Decreased OSI levels were detected in the patient group (P = 0.001). There was a positive relationship of prolidase with vitamin E in both patient and control groups (r = 0.892, P = 0.001, and r = 0.659, P = 0.001, respectively). A positive, but weak, relationship was identified between prolidase activity and TOS levels and also between vitamin E and TOS levels in the UEI group (r = 0.265, P = 0.049, and r = 0.288, P = 0.014, respectively). No association was found between prolidase and TOS levels or between vitamin E and TOS levels in the control group (r = 0.0097, P = 0.527, and r = 0.085, P = 0.610, respectively).

Conclusion

Our results showed an association between serum prolidase activity and oxidative stress in UEI patients. Further studies including greater groups are required to show the role of reactive oxygen species in UEI.
Change of uterine leiomyoma size during pregnancy and the influencing factors: A cohort study
Authors: Tian Yu‐cui , Wang Qian , Wang Hong‐mei , Wu Jian‐hong , Dai Yin‐mei
Published: August 2021

Objective

To evaluate the changes of uterine leiomyoma size during pregnancy and determine the factors influencing it.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted from June 2016 to June 2018. Women with pregnancies complicated by leiomyoma were recruited. Ultrasound examinations were conducted to measure the size of leiomyoma during 6–7, 11–14, 22–24, 28–34 weeks of pregnancy and before delivery. The clinical characteristics and delivery details of the pregnant women were collected. Changes in leiomyoma size during different gestation periods and the influencing factors were analyzed.

Results

Leiomyoma size commonly increased before 22–24 weeks of pregnancy and the fastest growth occurred before 11–14 weeks. From 22–24 weeks to the date of delivery, the size of leiomyoma remained unchanged. The initial size of the leiomyoma showed negative correlation with the changes in leiomyoma diameters during pregnancy. Pre‐pregnancy body mass index, fetus number, leiomyoma location, and parity were positively correlated with the size changes in leiomyoma from 22–24 to 28–34 weeks of pregnancy.

Conclusion

Before 22–24 weeks of pregnancy, the size of the leiomyoma was gestation‐dependent, which increases with gestational weeks. The fastest growth rate was before 11–14 weeks. The growth of leiomyoma is affected by multiple factors, and different factors can play different roles during different periods of the pregnancy.
A novelmultimodalityanatomical image fusion method based on contrast and structure extraction
Authors: Sufyan Arbab , Imran Muhammad , Shah Syed Attique , Shahwani Hamayoun , Wadood Arbab Abdul
Published: August 2021

Image modalities, such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and so on, reflect various levels of details about objects of interest that help medical practitioners to examine patients' diseases from different perspectives. A single medical image, at times, may not be sufficient for making a critical decision; therefore, providing detailed information from a different perspective may help in making a better decision. Image fusion techniques play a vital role in this regard by combining important details from different medical images into a single, information enhanced image. In this article, we present a novel weighted term multimodality anatomical medical image fusion method. The proposed method, as a first step, eliminates the distortions from the source images and afterward, extracts two pieces of crucial information: the local contrast and the salient structure. Both the local contrast and salient structure are later combined to obtain the final weight map. The obtained weights are then passed through a fast guided filter to remove the discontinuities and noise. Lastly, the refined weight map is fused with source images using pyramid decomposition to get the final fused image. The proposed method is accessed and compared both qualitatively and quantitatively with state‐of‐the‐art techniques. The result illustrates the performance superiority and efficiency of the proposed method.
Father‐child bonding among Japanese fathers of infants: A municipal‐based study at the time of the 4‐month child health checkup
Authors: Yoshida Kazuki , Goto Aya , Takebayashi Yoshitake , Murakami Michio , Sasaki Mie
Published: August 2021

We aimed to clarify the factor structure of a bonding measure among Japanese fathers with infants and the factors associated with the subscales. Among fathers of children attending the 4‐month health checkup, the Japanese version of the Mother‐to‐Infant Bonding Scale had a two‐factor structure comprising “anger” and “lack of affection.” Anger was associated with fathers’ work demands and poor mental condition, and lack of affection with fathers’ older age, poor mental condition, and interpersonal problems at home. Paternal parenting support needs to account for not only the fathers themselves, but also interpersonal communication at home and in the work environment.
Kinetic insight into perovskite La0.8Sr0.2VO3 nanofibers as an efficient electrocatalytic cathode for high‐rate LiO2 batteries
Authors: Sung Myeong‐Chang , Lee Gwang‐Hee , Kim Dong‐Wan
Published: August 2021

Efficient electrocatalysis at the cathode is essential for overcoming the limitations of LiO2 batteries such as poor stability and low rate capability. Herein, we systematically studied the kinetic behavior of a LiO2 battery comprising perovskite La0.8Sr0.2VO3 nanofibers formed by partial Sr‐cation doping and V cations with multiple oxidation states. Compared with undoped LaVO3 and La0.8Sr0.2VO4 nanofibers, perovskite La0.8Sr0.2VO3 nanofibers exhibited an improved capacity of 2000 mA g−1, and a 20‐times‐longer cycle life in LiO2 batteries. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, and photoluminescence analyses revealed that the performance variations mainly originated from crystal defects, which modulate oxygen reduction/evolution kinetics. Through in situ Raman analysis, we showed that these structural defects are closely related to the oxygen reduction/evolution behavior of La0.8Sr0.2VO3 nanofibers and result in fewer parasitic reactions. This study offers insights into the potential rate capability of LiO2 batteries and related devices.

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International train the trainer neonatal antibiotic stewardship program for South African pharmacists
Authors: Goff Debra A. , Prusakov Pavel , Mangino Julie E. , Sanchez Pablo J. , Nwomeh Benedict , Messina Angeliki P. , Schellack Natalie , Annor Ama S. , Cassim Azraa , Kolman Sonya , Van Tonder Lindie , Mawela Dini , Velaphi Sithembiso C. , Chirwa Pinky Lea , van den Bergh Dena
Published: August 2021

Hospital‐acquired antimicrobial‐resistant infections are a leading cause of neonatal mortality in South African (SA) neonatal intensive care units (NICU). There is an urgent need for NICU Antibiotic Stewardship Programs (ASP). We describe the development of an international Train‐the‐Trainer (TTT) NICU‐ASP mentoring program for SA pharmacists. A partnership between the South Africa Antimicrobial Stewardship Program (SAASP) and ASP experts from two United States (US) hospitals was formed in 2019. A baseline assessment of four SA NICUs was done to guide the development of a TTT NICU‐ASP mentoring of SA pharmacists utilizing the existing workforce. The program included bilateral site visits. Pre‐post surveys were used to assess SA mentee's NICU experiences, barriers to clinical pharmacy services and confidence to train additional pharmacists in NICU ASP. Four mentees from private (n = 1) and public hospitals (n = 3) completed a 2‐week TTT NICU‐ASP in the US that included; education, patient care rounds, role‐playing, peer‐to‐peer sessions and behavioral interventions followed by ongoing support and mentoring by SAASP mentors. None of the hospitals had pharmacists participating in daily patient care rounds or had multidisciplinary NICU‐ASPs due to lack of NICU trained pharmacists and dedicated time for ASP. Post surveys showed improved confidence to train additional pharmacists in NICU‐ASP. Subsequently, these SA mentees provided NICU‐ASP education to over 700 health care professionals and trained six additional pharmacists in NICU‐ASP. Mentors and mentees developed a comprehensive NICU ASP toolkit for ongoing training of additional pharmacists. A new research collaboration between TTT NICU‐ASP mentors, mentees and physician members of the South Africa National Neonatal Sepsis Task Force has formed and the first national NICU‐ASP study is underway in 12 hospitals. Shared leadership between U.S. and SA mentors led to developing a TTT NICU‐ASP for pharmacists tailored to existing resources and local needs.
Critical care pharmacy in Saudi Arabia: Historical evolution and future directions—A review by the Critical Care and Emergency Medicine Pharmacy Specialty Network at the Saudi Society of Clinical Pharmacy
Authors: Alshaya Abdulrahman I. , Alhammad Abdullah M. , Ismail Nadia , Alkhani Nada , Alharbi Shmeylan , Alenazi Ahmed O. , Aljuhani Ohoud
Published: August 2021

Background

Clinical pharmacy services in Saudi Arabia (SA) have improved over the past few years, leading to improved patient‐centered outcomes. Clinical pharmacy services have been steadily incorporating critical care (CC) services in the country since the 1980s with a sustained growth in this field over the last few years.

Aims

This review aims to describe CC pharmacy services in Saudi Arabia by exploring the historical evolution of patient care, education, research, and leadership, including challenges and opportunities for professional advancement.

Materials and methodology

We reviewed existing literature regarding CC pharmacy services in SA in addition to documented phone interviews with CC pharmacy pioneers in SA.

Results

Critical care pharmacy services improved in many facets. We identified possible areas for improvement and suggested an action plan for other countries to expand their CC pharmacy services.

Conclusion

In Saudi Arabia, clinical pharmacy services are growing with sustained growth in CC pharmacy services.
Rare complication of hepatocellular carcinoma in Wilson's disease
Authors: Ohkoshi‐Yamada Marina , Kamimura Kenya , Kamimura Hiroteru , Terai Shuji
Published: August 2021

The complication of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Wilson's disease is rare. Wilson's disease treatment using D‐penicillamine (DPA) is useful to prevent HCC occurrence; however, it also causes iron accumulation and synergistic radical formation in the liver, which may enhance carcinogenesis. Reported herein is a case of HCC in Wilson's disease treated with DPA for 36 years. The tumor was surgically resected and histologically diagnosed with moderately differentiated HCC surrounded by cirrhotic tissue with fatty infiltration. Rhodanine staining revealed a slight positively stained area in both tumor and surrounding tissues. Information obtained from this case and literature review highlight the feature of HCC in Wilson's disease.
Adaptive piecewise linear model for class C rectifier design
Authors: Arpanutud Kirote , Wei Muh‐Dey , Phaebua Kittisak , Tontisirin Sitt , Negra Renato , Chalermwisutkul Suramate
Published: August 2021

In this work, an adaptive piecewise linear diode model is presented for class C rectifier design. The model is developed based on conventional piecewise linear diode model and curve fitting to extract the model parameters for different input power and load situations. The accuracy of the model is evaluated by comparing the calculated power conversion efficiency (PCE) using the proposed model with the simulation result of a commercial software tool (Keysight's ADS). By using the proposed model, PCE is determined by directly calculating the voltage and current waveforms of the diode using close form equations instead of using ADS harmonic balance simulation. The diode used for this study is SMS7621. With relatively low load resistance, the discrepancy of the calculated PCE compared to ADS is less than 0.0001% (at −0.5 dBm input power and with 1.26 kΩ load). The discrepancy is increased in case of a high load resistance which can be up to 5.28% (at −34.7 dBm input power and 40 kΩ load). The proposed diode model can be used to design a class C rectifier without using a commercial simulator given that the IV curve of the diode is provided in the datasheet or from a direct DC sweep measurement. In addition, the proposed model can also estimate achievable PCE of a diode used for implementation of a class C rectifier.
Nickel‐free high‐nitrogen austenitic steel outperforms CoCrMo alloy regarding tribocorrosion in simulated inflammatory synovial fluids
Authors: Radice Simona , Neto Mozart Q. , Fischer Alfons , Wimmer Markus A.
Published: August 2021

CoCrMo alloys are well‐established biomaterials used for orthopedic joint replacement implants. However, such alloys have been associated with clinical problems related to wear and corrosion. A new generation of austenitic high‐nitrogen steels (AHNSs) has been developed for biomedical applications. Here, we have addressed influences of hyaluronic acid, combined with inflammatory (oxidizing) conditions, on tribocorrosion of the high‐nitrogen FeCrMnMoN0.9 steel (DIN/EN X13CrMnMoN18‐14‐3, 1.4452), and of the low carbon CoCrMo0.03 alloy (ISO 5832‐12). We aimed to elucidate critical and clinically relevant conditions affecting the implant's performance in certain orthopedic applications. Tribocorrosion tests were conducted in triplicate, with discs under reciprocating sliding wear against a ceramic ball. Different lubricants were prepared from standardized bovine serum solution (ISO 14242‐1), with variable additions of hyaluronic acid (HA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Test conditions were: 37°C, 86,400 cycles, 37 N load (20–40 MPa after run‐in phase). Volumetric wear was quantified; surfaces were evaluated by electrochemical parameters and microscopy/spectroscopy analyses (SEM/EDS). Factorial analysis of variance tests was conducted to examine the effects of HA, H2O2, and test material on wear‐ and corrosion‐related dependent variables. Tribocorrosion performances of CoCrMo0.03 and FeCrMnMoN0.9 were comparable in fluids without H2O2. With higher H2O2 concentrations, tribocorrosion increased for CoCrMo0.03, while this was not the case for FeCrMnMoN0.9. HA significantly enhanced wear of CoCrMo0.03 in the absence of H2O2, while it mitigated the tribocorrosive action of 3 mM H2O2; HA had no impact on FeCrMnMoN0.9. These results indicate a favorable performance of FeCrMnMoN0.9 compared to CoCrMo0.03, and encourage further research on AHNS for certain orthopedic applications.
Multivariate outcome evaluation of furcation‐involved molars treated with non‐surgical mechanical therapy alone or combined with open flap debridement: A retrospective study
Authors: Majzoub Jad , Salami Ali , Barootchi Shayan , Tavelli Lorenzo , Wang Hom‐Lay , Chan Hsun‐Liang
Published: August 2021

Background

This retrospective study assessed the effect of non‐surgical and surgical mechanical therapy for furcation‐involved molars.

Methods

Furcation defects treated and followed for at least 1 year were selected. Data relative to the clinical outcomes were recorded. The immediate (3‐ to 6‐month) clinical outcomes and the long‐term survival of the treated molars were assessed. The potential variables influencing the treatment outcomes through multi‐level regression analysis, and Cox Proportional‐Hazards Models were also analyzed.

Results

One hundred and eighty‐four molars were included with an average follow‐up of 7.52 years. At the 3‐ to 6‐month re‐evaluation 1.39 ± 0.99 mm pocket depth reduction, 0.88 ± 1.29 mm clinical attachment gain, and a 0.51 ± 1.13 mm increase in recession was observed. The 5‐ and 10‐year survival rates were 88.3% and 61.3%, respectively. The horizontal and vertical extent of furcation involvement, baseline probing depth, mucoperiosteal flap elevation, and the frequency of supportive periodontal therapy influenced the clinical outcomes and tooth survival.

Conclusion

Non‐surgical and surgical mechanical root debridement is a viable treatment for the management of furcation involved molars with shallow horizontal and vertical components.
Degradation kinetics and solvent effects of various long‐chain quaternary ammonium salts
Authors: Kleijwegt Roel J. T. , Winkenwerder Wyatt , Baan Wim , van der Schaaf John
Published: August 2021

Surfactants such as quaternary ammonium salts (QAS) have been in increasing demand, for emerging new applications. Recent attempts at process intensification of their production have disclosed the need for a better understanding of QAS thermal stability. This work aims to determine the degradation kinetics of various QASs and the associated solvent effects. The degradation kinetics of four methyl carbonate QASs were determined in various polar solvents in stainless steel batch autoclaves. H NMR spectrometry was employed for offline analysis of the reaction mixtures. The kinetic parameters were then used to compare the thermal stability of the four compounds in the polar solvents. Water showed no degradation, and methanol (MeOH) was the solvent that provided the second‐best stability. Water–MeOH mixtures may provide an overall optimum. Moreover, and longer long‐chain substituents increased the degradation rate. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to obtain the thermal stability in a solid state, that is, solventless environment. Isoconversional analysis showed that no reliable kinetic parameters could be determined. Nevertheless, the data did allow for a comparison of the thermal stability of 14 different QASs. Furthermore, the relative instability of the compounds in the solid state demonstrated the challenges of solventless QAS production.
All‐Inorganic Rare‐Earth‐Based Double Perovskite Nanocrystals with Near‐Infrared Emission
Authors: Wu Ruixiang , Han Peigeng , Zheng Daoyuan , Zhang Junfeng , Yang Songqiu , Zhao Yang , Miao Xiangyang , Han Keli
Published: August 2021

Lead‐free halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) with the unique optical properties are of interest for broad applications. There are a few studies on near‐infrared (NIR) emission in perovskite NCs. Here, all‐inorganic rare‐earth‐based Cs2NaEr1−xBxCl6 (B: In, Sb, or Bi; x = 0, 0.13, and 0.5) double perovskite (DP) NCs have been successfully sythesized. The Cs2NaErCl6 NCs show good air stability and emit a sharp NIR photoluminescence (PL) at telecommunication wavelength of 1543 nm, originating from 4I13/2→4I15/2 transition of the Er3+, and its average lifetime is 35.7 µs. Especially for Cs2NaEr0.5Sb0.5Cl6 NCs, NIR PL can be enhanced 23‐fold with the lifetime being 119.1 µs. Moreover, femtosecond transient absorption measurements prove that a long‐lifetime trap state promotes NIR emitting in the mixed Sb/Er DP NCs.
Polyamide Nanofiltration Membranes from Surfactant‐Assembly Regulated Interfacial Polymerization: The Effect of Alkyl Chain
Authors: Zhang Ruolin , Zhu Yuzhang , Zhang Liufu , Lu Yang , Yang Zhao , Zhang Yatao , Jin Jian
Published: August 2021

Regulating the monomer diffusion during interfacial polymerization (IP) process is the key for tailoring the pore structure and desalination performance of thin‐film composite polyamide nanofiltration (NF) membrane. Recently a surfactant‐assembly strategy to regulate IP process and NF membranes with sub‐Å separation precision is proposed. However, little is known for the role of the molecular structure of surfactant on IP process and membrane performance. In this work, five sulfate surfactants with different length of alkyl chains are used to construct surfactant monolayer assembly at the water/hexane interface to regulate IP process. The results show that for the sulfate surfactants, the longer the alkyl chain, the more uniform the pore size distribution of polyamide active layer is and the higher the ion separation selectivity of NF membrane is. Among them, the NF membrane prepared from sodium n‐hexadecyl sulfate (SHS) exhibits the highest separation performance with the rejection of Na2SO4, MgSO4, MgCl2, and CaCl2 up to 99.39%, 99.12%, 98.09%, and 97.38%, respectively. Overall, this study further confirms the regulatory role of surfactant‐assembled monolayer during IP process and provides important insights into how the polyamide structure and the resulting NF membranes are influenced by the alkyl chain length of the surfactants.
Histone lysine demethylase 4B regulates general and unique gene expression signatures in hypoxic cancer cells
Authors: Qiu Lei , Meng Yang , Wang Lingli , Gunewardena Sumedha , Liu Sicheng , Han Junhong , Krieg Adam J.
Published: August 2021

The hypoxic tumor microenvironment promotes tumor survival by inducing the expression of genes involved in angiogenesis and metastasis. As a direct target of hypoxia‐inducible factor, lysine demethylase 4B (KDM4B) is overexpressed in multiple cancers, suggesting that a general KDM4B regulatory mechanism may exist in these cancer types. In this study, we sought to further investigate the general and unique roles of KDM4B in ovarian, colon, and renal cancer cells. We first identified a set of potential KDM4B targets shared by SKOV3ip.1, HCT116, and RCC4 cell lines, as well as numerous genes specifically regulated in each cell line. Through Gene Ontology, KEGG, and Oncobox pathway analyses, we found that KDM4B primarily regulated biosynthetic and cell cycle pathways in normoxia, whereas in hypoxia, it regulated pathways associated with inflammatory response and migration. TCGA data analyses reveal high expression ofKDM4Bin multiple cancer types and differential expression across cancer stages. Kaplan–Meier plots suggest that elevatedKDM4Bexpression may contribute to a better or worse prognosis in a manner specific to each cancer type. Overall, our findings suggest thatKDM4Bplays complex roles in regulating multiple cancer processes, providing a useful resource for the future development of cancer therapies that targetKDM4Bexpression.
Cellular Prion Protein Mediates α‐Synuclein Uptake, Localization, and Toxicity In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Thom Tobias , Schmitz Matthias , Fischer Anna‐Lisa , Correia Angela , Correia Susana , Llorens Franc , Pique Anna‐Villar , Möbius Wiebke , Domingues Renato , Zafar Saima , Stoops Erik , Silva Christopher J. , Fischer Andre , Outeiro Tiago F. , Zerr Inga
Published: August 2021

Background

The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a membrane‐bound, multifunctional protein mainly expressed in neuronal tissues. Recent studies indicate that the native trafficking of PrPC can be misused to internalize misfolded amyloid beta and α‐synuclein (aSyn) oligomers.

Objectives

We define PrPC's role in internalizing misfolded aSyn in α‐synucleinopathies and identify further involved proteins.

Methods

We performed comprehensive behavioral studies on four transgenic mouse models (ThySyn and ThySynPrP00, TgM83 and TgMPrP00) at different ages. We developed PrPC‐(over)‐expressing cell models (cell line and primary cortical neurons), used confocal laser microscopy to perform colocalization studies, applied mass spectrometry to identify interactomes, and determined disassociation constants using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy.

Results

Behavioral deficits (memory, anxiety, locomotion, etc.), reduced lifespans, and higher oligomeric aSyn levels were observed in PrPC‐expressing mice (ThySyn and TgM83), but not in homologous Prnp ablated mice (ThySynPrP00 and TgMPrP00). PrPC colocalized with and facilitated aSyn (oligomeric and monomeric) internalization in our cell‐based models. Glimepiride treatment of PrPC‐overexpressing cells reduced aSyn internalization in a dose‐dependent manner. SPR analysis showed that the binding affinity of PrPC to monomeric aSyn was lower than to oligomeric aSyn. Mass spectrometry‐based proteomic studies identified clathrin in the immunoprecipitates of PrPC and aSyn. SPR was used to show that clathrin binds to recombinant PrP, but not aSyn. Experimental disruption of clathrin‐coated vesicles significantly decreased aSyn internalization.

Conclusion

PrPC's native trafficking can be misused to internalize misfolded aSyn through a clathrin‐based mechanism, which may facilitate the spreading of pathological aSyn. Disruption of aSyn‐PrPC binding is, therefore, an appealing therapeutic target in α‐synucleinopathies. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Study examines suicide ideation among vets during COVID‐19
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: August 2021

Observing that the COVID‐19 pandemic has raised considerable concerns about increased risk for suicidal behavior among U.S. military veterans, who already had elevated rates of suicide prior to the pandemic, researchers found that a small proportion of veterans developed new‐onset suicide ideation during the pandemic.
Cost, access major barriers for people with mood disorders
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: August 2021

While most adults understand that mood disorders have significant economic and social impacts when left untreated, access and cost are still major barriers to treatment. This is particularly true for those who do not have insurance and who come from low‐income households, as they are more likely to struggle with access, according to results of a new survey released Aug. 24 by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
California university introduces digital therapy training
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: August 2021

Following up on the pandemic's shift to digital‐delivery‐based care, a California‐based university has begun offering its students and alumni training and best practices necessary to incorporate digital therapy tools into mental health practice.
Solvability conditions and general solutions to some quaternion matrix equations
Authors: He Zhuo‐Heng , Wang Meng
Published: August 2021

This paper studies some quaternion matrix equations. We use the equivalence canonical form to present some practical necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a solution to the system of quaternion matrix equations in terms of ranks

We derive the general solution to the above system in terms of block matrices. As an application of the system, we give some practical necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a ϕ‐Hermitian solution to the system of quaternion matrix equations

where X, Y, and Z are ϕ‐Hermitian unknowns. We also provide the general ϕ‐Hermitian solution to the system when the solvability conditions are satisfied. Moreover, we present some numerical examples to illustrate the results of this paper.
Strong instability of solitary waves for inhomogeneous nonlinear Schrödinger equations
Authors: Wang Chenglin , Zhang Jian
Published: August 2021

This paper studies the inhomogeneous nonlinear Schrödinger equations, which may model the propagation of laser beams in nonlinear optics. Using the cross‐constrained variational method, a sharp condition for global existence is derived. Then, by solving a variational problem, the strong instability of solitary waves of this equation is proved.
Non‐coaxial hypoplastic model for sand with evolving fabric anisotropy including non‐proportional loading
Authors: Liao Dong , Yang Zhongxuan
Published: August 2021

Non‐coaxial response refers to the deviation between the directions of the principal stress and plastic strain increment. In this paper, an extended hypoplastic model is proposed based on the anisotropic critical state theory, to describe the non‐coaxial and anisotropic response of sand subjected to both monotonic loading and rotation of principal stress axis. A fabric tensor that characterizes the internal structure of sand is introduced into a hypoplastic model, to reflect the effect of fabric anisotropy on the dilatancy and strength of sand. A Lode‐angle‐dependent hypoplastic potential surface is employed, rendering the flow direction no longer co‐directional with the stress tensor in the deviatoric plane. The fabric tensor is further incorporated into the flow direction, enabling the model to generate a non‐coaxial response. Upon shearing, the fabric evolves toward the loading direction following a properly defined evolution law, and the model response becomes purely coaxial at the critical state when the fabric becomes co‐directional with the loading direction. The tangential loading effect is further introduced to simulate the stiffness degradation of sand during undrained rotational shearing. The model is demonstrated to be capable of simulating the prismatic yet complex anisotropic behavior of sand under both proportional and non‐proportional loading conditions.