bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study in grayscale. Review of the book by Yu.Yu. Yumasheva "Digital transformation of audiovisual archives. Audiovisual archives online".
Authors: Hookk Daria
Published: April 2022

This review is devoted to the monograph by Yu.Yu.Yumasheva, published in DirectMedia publishing house in 2020. The monograph is the result of a comprehensive study, within the framework of which the author carried out a source and historiographical analysis of the problems of audiovisual documentation and its digital transformation based on open data sets over the past 15 years. The 600-page book was announced as a textbook for students, employees of government bodies and specialists in the field of archival affairs. A detailed acquaintance with the text makes it possible to come to a conclusion as to how fully the claimed research has been completed, and whether the proposed form corresponds to its purpose. Starting with the formal characteristics of the book: the cover design, the quality of the illustrations and the structure of the publication, the reviewer proceeds to discuss the content of the published materials. The monograph is devoted to the problems of digital transformation of traditional audiovisual archives, the translation of audio, photo, and film documents into digital form, the creation of electronic resources based on created copies and their presentation on the Internet. The author has accumulated a knowledge bank, which presents information resources available on the world Wide Web, based on digitized bibliographic catalogs, scientific reference apparatus of archives and museum records, as well as electronic copies of objects of historical and cultural heritage. In total, the monograph mentions more than 2.5 thousand such resources created by 29 international organizations and 68 countries. The issues of traditional source criticism of audiovisual sources, methods of their digitization and description of the received electronic copies are analyzed by the author along with computer methods of studying audiovisual documentation converted into digital format. Despite the limited circulation, the monograph should be recommended not as a textbook, but as a reference guide and to a wider range of specialties.
Databases on the problems of studying social stratification and mobility of urban elites and the middle strata of Tambov in the late 19th - early 20th centuries: sources, structure, technology of complex analysis
Authors: Strekalova Natalia Valeryevna
Published: April 2022

The article presents the structure of source-oriented electronic databases created on the basis of personified mass sources that contain information about the population of Tambov in 1896-1917. The features and possibilities of using mass primary sources for the study of social stratification and mobility of the propertied strata of the population of the provincial center in the late 19th - early 20th centuries are analyzed. Methods of complex processing of electronic databases on social stratification and mobility of the population of a Russian provincial city in the late 19th - early 20th centuries are characterized. The scientific novelty of the study consists of the use of information technologies to implement the method of social identification of the elite and middle layers of the provincial Russian city in the late 19th - early 20th centuries, the basis of which is the approaches and methods of theories of multidimensional stratification and social mobility. The information potential of the bases made it possible to conduct social ranking, analyze the social mobility of the elite and the middle strata of the provincial center in the late 19th - early 20th centuries. The presented methods and technologies for the creation and complex processing of source-oriented databases on the problems of social stratification and mobility of the elite and middle strata of Tambov in the late 19th - early 20th centuries can be used to study social processes in relation to other settlements, chronological periods, class-social and professional groups of the population.
The scribe book of the Tver half of the Bezhetskaya Pyatina in 1545: publication of the source in the web gis environment
Authors: Stepanova Iuliia , Frolov Alexey , Gavrilov Pavel Vladimirovich , Savinova Anna Igorevna
Published: April 2022

The article discusses the experience of online publication of the scribe book of the Tver half of the Bezhetskaya Pyatina of the Novgorod land in 1545 on the NextGIS Web platform. The scribe's Book of 1545 is the most complete source describing the territory of the Tver half of the Bezhetskaya Pyatina of the XVI century. The book reflects the composition of landowners not only of the XVI century, but also of the period of independence of Veliky Novgorod. The paper describes methods of working with the geographical information of the book, creating geodata based on it and ways of presenting them in a web format. Attention is paid to various technical solutions, their strengths and weaknesses are considered. В  The novelty of the research lies in a new look at the auxiliary element of the NextGIS Web web map, which is the Description displayed on the functional panel of its interface. The proposed approach turns the interactive geographical pointer accompanying the map into a platform for full-text publication of the source, in which the map performs the function of a container, always ready to display exactly the spatial context in which the geographical object selected by the user exists from the text of the historical source of the source. The main conclusion of the work is the conclusion that the proposed method allows you to combine the transmission of the main elements of the paper publication of the source with the advantages of a modern digital format, expanded due to the cartographic component.
Unilateral Double Subscapular Artery: A Case Report
Authors: Ã­guez Jailenne I QuiÃ±ones-Rodr , Miranda Valeria Lozada- , Arbona Natalia Del Mazo- , Rosario Martin G
Published: April 2022

Variations in the Subscapular Artery (SA) are among the most common variations in the Axillary Artery (AA) and its branches. However, the occurrence of a common trunk from the third division is unusual. Hereby, authors report an atypical variation in the distal division of the axillary artery found during routine dissection of an elderly female cadaver. In this donor, the third portion of the AA gave rise to an SA, a common trunk, and the anterior circumflex humeral artery. In addition, the common trunk gave rise to a second SA, the posterior circumflex humeral artery, the scapular circumflex artery, and the thoracodorsal artery. Both SA branches appeared to irrigate the subscapularis muscles. Comprehension of the diverse anatomical variations of the subscapular artery is critically important in surgical procedures and therapeutic interventions for the upper limb.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HYDRODYNAMICALLY BALANCED FLOATING TABLETS OF GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA EXTRACT
Authors: S Revathi , M Raj Kumar , S Kathirvel , M Muthamizhvendhan , S Najid , C Sri Bhuvaneshwari , R Manivannan
Published: April 2022

The aim of the study is to formulate, optimize and evaluate Glycyrrhiza glabra floating tablets using 23 optimization technique for the treatment of asthma. The extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra was prepared by subjecting crude drug to hot continuous percolation method using Soxhlet apparatus using distilled water and ethanol. The floating matrix tablets of Glycyrrhiza glabra was prepared by wet granulation technique using extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra, HPMC K15M as polymer, starch/honey as binder and sodium bicarbonate & citric acid as effervescent agents by 23 factorial design. The independent variables are polymer (X1), concentrations of effervescence agents (X2) and binders used for granulation (X3). The dependent variables are hardness (Y1), buoyancy lag time (Y2), total floating time (Y3), and in-vitro drug release (Y4). The compatibility studies showed that there is no chemical interaction between the drug, polymer and the excipients used in the tablets. The prepared floating tablets were subjected to all post compression parameters such as hardness, friability, swelling capacity, buoyancy, total floating time, drug content &in-vitro drug release and were found to be within normal limits. Based on drug content, buoyancy lag time and in-vitro drug release the formulations F8 was found to be the promising system for anti-asthmatic therapy. The present study reports for the development of gastric floating tablet for Glycyrrhiza glabra following oral administration.
EFFECT OF MUD THERAPY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF KATIGRAHA: A REVIEW
Authors: Agarwal Ram Kumar , Jain Rachna , Paul Smita
Published: April 2022

One cannot follow the rules of 'Dinacharya' and 'Ritucharya' described in 'Ayurveda' in today's hectic, rapid, and mechanical life. Because of intensive industrialization and the advancement of superior software technologies, humanity has fallen behind in living a quick and frenetic life. As a result, everyone who engages in improper sitting postures, long journeys, overexertion, jerky movements during travel and sports, weightlifting, sitting for a long time, and other strenuous activities, among other things, puts undue strain on the spinal column and contributes to the development of Low Backache even in their early decades of life. About 70%-90% of the population above 40 years of age suffers from this Low Backache disease
Assessment of Liver Function and Its Correlation with Inflammatory Markers and Severity of Disease during COVID-19 Second Wave in a Tertiary Care Centre
Authors: Dhotra Arun , Anand A. , Shaikh Kani , Akilandeshwari A. R. , Arun N.
Published: April 2022

Aims: To assess the Liver function in COVID-19 infection and study its correlation with inflammatory markers and severity of disease.

Study Design:  A Retrospective Observational study.

Place and Duration of Study: Government Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai, India. Two month study period was taken during the second COVID wave (1st May 2021 to 30th June 2021).

Methodology:  The study covered all COVID-19 positive individuals who were over the age of 19. Patients with any chronic liver disease, Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C were excluded. Data was collected from case files. Record was made of the liver function tests and inflammatory markers – C-Reactive Protein and Interleukin-6 (CRP, IL-6). Severe disease was defined as patients with respiratory rate > 30/min, SpO2 <90% on room air or requiring Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission or mechanical ventilation. Collected data was analysed using appropriate statistical tests.

Results: 132 patients were included in the study. Out of these 59 patients (44.70%) had elevated Liver function tests (LFTs). Maximum patients (42.37%) had hepatocellular pattern. 59.32% patients were males. Mean age of patients with elevated LFTs was 51.03±13.03 years. ICU admission was required in 40.68% of patients with deranged LFTs compared to 23.28% in patients with normal LFTs, which was statistically significant (P <0.03). A positive correlation was found between deranged LFTs and inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6). (P <0.001).

Conclusion:  A significant number of COVID-19 positive individuals have abnormal liver function. Inflammatory indicators and elevated LFTs have a positive relationship. Patients with abnormal liver function tests were more likely to have severe illness.
Laboratory Performance Evaluation of Wantai HIV 1/2 Rapid Test Kit
Authors: Johnson Onoja Ali , Rubainu Manason , E. Ekanen Ekanem , Olaniyi Felix Sanni , Araoye Segilola
Published: April 2022

Background: Detection of specific antibodies in the blood/body fluids is the primary testing method for HIV infection. A rapid test is one of the assays used in detecting HIV-specific antibodies. This study was conducted to evaluate the laboratory performance of the Wantai HIV 1/2 Rapid Test Kit.

Study Design: Cross-sectional laboratory-based performance characteristics study.

Place of Study: The study was conducted across all the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria (North Central, North East, North West, South West, South East, and South-South).

Methodology: This study was a cross-sectional laboratory-based performance evaluation with specimens obtained from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, characterised in the reference laboratory, and used to evaluate the Wantai test-kit. Ten millilitres of whole blood were collected from all the study sites in EDTA vacutainer tubes through venous puncture from participants, coded, centrifuged, and plasma harvested into cryovials in three aliquots of 2mls each. All specimens were retested using a combination of determine and Unigold rapid test kits. Samples that tested positive or negative concordantly with these kits were used to evaluate the Wantai HIV test kit. The data were entered in Excel and analysed with IBM-SPSS-version 25.

Result: Of the 1353 samples, 697 were HIV positive, and 656 were negative. Wantai RTK accurately detected 694(99.6%) positive and 649(98.9%) negative samples. Its sensitivity was 99.57% [95% CI:98.75%-99.91%], and the specificity was 98.93%[95%CI:97.81%-99.57%], with 99.26%[95%CI:98.64%-99.64%] accuracy. Collecting the correct plasma volume was at a 90.0% rate, reading the test result within the time limit, line visibility, interpreting the result, learning the procedure, design of the kit and waste generated were all at the rate of 100.0%.

Conclusion: With a sensitivity of 99.6% and a specificity of 98.9%, the Wantai HIV rapid test is suitable for inclusion as a first-line (screening) test in Nigeria’s HIV testing algorithm.
Constraint Analysis of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana in Tumkur District of Karnataka
Authors: Hani Umme , Nagesha G. , Moorthy Ganesh , Raju A.
Published: April 2022

The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana was implemented to protect the farmers from crop loss due to unforeseen events and to reduce the burden of financial risk of farmers. Even though this crop insurance programme was found to be farmer friendly, rural people still feel difficulties in understanding and accepting it. Therefore, this problem analysis has become an important thrust area of extension research in the present context. The problem analysis would help to lubricate the process of diffusion of new insurance schemes among farmers. In this context, the study was undertaken in Tumkur district of Karnataka to analyse the constraints faced by the beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. 120 respondents were selected by using the proportionate random sampling technique. Sixteen independent variables were selected based on judges' relevancy rating and were quantified using appropriate measurement devices. The data were collected using a pretested structured interview schedule and statistical tools Garret ranking techniques, mean and SD were used to analyze the data. Delay in getting claims (Rank I), inadequate compensation (Rank II), official bias in loss assessment (Rank III) and complex procedure (Rank IV) were the major problems experienced by beneficiaries. Problem with the time shortage and to pay the premium (Rank I), lack of awareness (Rank II) and not submission of required documents (Rank III) were the consequences for not getting benefits by non-beneficiaries. Claim should be dispersed before starting of the next season (Rank I), creation of separate cell at Block / Taluk level (Rank II), greater number of trainings need to be organized on the scheme (Rank III) and village level provision of insurance facilities (Rank IV) were the important recommendations given for the implementation of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana for the benefit of needy farmers. Delay in getting claims and inadequate compensation problems should be taken into consideration by the concerned development department officials of state government and insurance companies. So, that the early settlement of claims and adequate compensation is given to them. Educate farmers through online platforms, simplifying procedure of the registration process and claim settlement. Further, creation of separate PMFBY cell at village and block level, more advertisement on the scheme in mass media helps to reap the benefits by all the farmers.
Nutrient Status of Soils from the Kaleshwaram Project Command Area of Erstwhile Nizamabad District in Telangana State
Authors: Prasad V. , Anjaiah T. , Pavanchandra Reddy K. , Laxminarayana P.
Published: April 2022

A research was conducted to study the fertility status of soils from kaleshwaram project command area of erstwhile Nizamabad district in Telangana. A total of 72 geo-referenced soil samples collected from surface (0-15cm) by using GPS coordinate. Samples were analysed for important soil parameters viz., pH, EC, available macronutrients (N, P, K) and micronutrients (Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu). Correlation study was done to study the relation between the various soil properties. The soil pH and EC showed wide variation that soils are low acidic to medium alkaline in reaction and low salinity. Whereas available N content is low (75 to 298 kg ha-1), available P2O5 content medium to high (18-358 kg ha-1) and available K2O content low to high (90 to 630 kg ha-1). The soil available Zn, Cu, Fe and Mn contents of surface soils are very low to adequate. Correlation study depicts that soil reaction was negatively related with soil available N, P2O5, Fe and Mn. the results of the study area showed that these soils are need proper management, supplement with organic manures and inorganic fertilisers.
PM2.5 Prediction of Innovation Priority Discrete Nonlinear Gray Model Based on Gray Wolf Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Lanxi Zhang , Hongming Liao
Published: April 2022

PM2.5 is one of the main factors of air pollution, so the prediction of PM2.5 is of great significance. For this reason, the innovation priority discrete nonlinear gray model based on gray wolf optimization algorithm is established, which is based on the innovation priority principle in the gray system principle. Try to optimize the discrete nonlinear gray model, and use the gray wolf optimization algorithm to solve the innovation priority parameters. First, the basic theory of discrete nonlinear gray model is proposed. On this basis, the innovation priority principle is used to improve the cumulative generation sequence, and the cumulative generation with parameters is defined. Finally, using the minimum error criterion, the gray wolf optimization algorithm is used to solve the parameters. Take the monthly PM2.5 data and daily PM2.5 data of Mianyang City, Chengdu City, Zigong City and Panzhihua in Sichuan Province as examples. Apply the model to perform PM2.5 forecast analysis, and calculate the absolute average percentage between the predicted value and the observed value Error, and compare with the traditional gray model. The analysis shows that the established model has achieved good results, which verifies the practicability and reliability of the proposed model.
Ultrasonographic Assessment of Third Trimester Fetal Kidney Length as a Measure of Gestational age in Growth Restricted Fetuses
Authors: Mohamed Eldafrawy Nadra Elsaid , Ali Mohamed Hussein Naglaa , Mohamed Tawfek Elbadry Amr , Mohamed AgIlan Nagwa Ibrahim
Published: April 2022

Background: Obstetric ultrasound is the first imaging modality used to assess the foetus and track its development. When the last menstrual period (LMP) is unknown, foetal ultrasonography can help with dates. According to studies, over 30% of pregnant women forget their LMP date. When the gestational age (GA) is uncertain, the pregnancy's outcome may be undesirable. To assess the ultrasonographic fetal kidney length as a measure of gestational age in third trimester.

Methods: All participant women were in the third trimester whose gestational age was calculated by reliable LMP which was confirmed by recorded ultrasonic measurement of BPD, AC& FL).

Participant women were divided into 2 equal groups:

Group 1: normal pregnancy & average.

Group 2: patients with growth restriction fetuses.

Results: The mean length and width of the left kidney were similar in both groups, as the mean length of the left kidney in the IUGR group was (38.40 ± 4.000) while it was in the control group (38.17 ± 3.637). The average width of the left kidney in the intrauterine growth restriction group was (23.09 ± 2.339) while it was in the control group (23.16 ± 2.341), there were significant positive correlations between the different study variables. A positive association was found between gestational age, fetal weight, bipolar diameter, femur length and abdominal circumference with the length of the right kidney, and they also found a positive association with the length of the left kidney.

Conclusions: In absence of renal anomalies/ abnormalities, kidney measurements; length, weight, volume can be used to determine gestational age accurately.

No difference between measuring Rt or Lt kidney on determining GA. Also, no difference between measurements in female or male fetuses.

Kidney measurement is not affected in cases of IUGR and can be used as a reliable indicator for actual gestational age of the fetus in these cases.
Antibiotics Sensitivity of Escherichia coli to Different Concentrations of Combined Herbal Drugs
Authors: Tombari Pius Monsi , Okechukwu Chiejina Somkene , Clement Ugochukwu Nyenke , Smart Enoch Amala
Published: April 2022

Background: The use of combinational approach in chemotherapeutic management has proven more effective against infectious disease and lower resistance development but the untoward effect of this is yet to be explored for alternative medicine.

Aims: This study aimed to study the effect of a combinational approach of herbal drugs on Escherichia coli response.

Methods: E. coli was treated in different concentrations of combined herbal drugs (Beta herbal drugs and Deep root herbal mixture – BD) and (Beta herbal drug and Goko cleanser – BG). The different concentrations of the mixtures employed were: 33.3%, 11.1%, 3.7%, 1.2% and 0.4%. The bacteria concentration of 103 CFU/ml was treated in the different concentrations of the herbal drugs. The growth response of the cultures were analyzed at 24 and 48 hrs. The antibiotic sensitivity of the bacteria exposed to the herbal drugs were measured against perfloxacin (PEF), ciprofloxacin (CIP), streptomycin (S), and septrin (SEP).

Results: The growth response curve showed growth of E. coli peaked in the lower concentrations but levelled down in the higher concentrations. 24 hr growth conditions showed much higher growth level than 48 hr. Higher concentrations of BG drug combination showed higher zones of clearance and only one concentration showed resistance: 0.4% (CIP). There was no unique pattern seen in the sensitivity of E. coli treated with BD however, there was five (5) cases of complete resistance: 0.4% (PEF), 1.2% (PEF) and 11.1% (CIP and SEP).

Conclusion: In vitro, the combined herbal drugs do not completely eliminate E. coli. However, some concentrations of the combinations demonstrated complete resistance to the antibiotics which shows that these locally made antimicrobial could confer antibiotic resistance to E. coli.
Determinants of Post-harvest Losses of Pineapple: A Farm-level Study in Moulvibazar District, Bangladesh
Authors: Begum Maimuna , Marium Bibi , Bhattachirjee Pia Modhumita , Begum Ayesha
Published: April 2022

Aims: Post-harvest losses are acknowledged as one of the major reasons for fresh grain production, especially fruit production in most developing countries. Thus, the present study is highlighted the perishable nature of the food and inefficient post-harvest management are one of the key reasons for fruit (pineapple) losses in the Moulvibazar district.

Study Design: This article is about determinants of post-harvest losses study and is placed on empirical analysis. It was carried out to find out what factors influence pineapple post-harvest losses at the farm level.

Place and Duration of Study: Sreemangal, Barlekha, Kulaura, Juri, and Rajnagar Upazilas were purposively chosen for this study because they represent the five most important pineapple producing locations in the Moulvibazar district. The study period was the harvesting season of pineapple from April to June 2019.

Methodology: Structured questionnaires were used to collect relevant information during face-to-face interviews with 320 pineapple farmers who were chosen using simple random sampling. Then the data were examined using descriptive and inferential statistics such as chi-square and factor analysis.

Results: The descriptive analysis shows that, based on the ranking of percentage, all pineapple farmers (100%) were engaged in the marketing of pineapple in order to reduce losses by exploring both direct and indirect means to sell their produce. This means that in order to avoid losses, finding a market for pineapples is important. There was a substantial link between the level of education (P=0.049), farm size (P=0.000), farm experience (P=0.021), yield (P=0.000), and post-harvest losses, as per chi-square analysis. Furthermore, according to the findings of the factor analysis, harvesting, grading, sorting, storage, packaging, transportation, and marketing are all aspects that affect post-harvest losses of pineapple at the farm level in the study area. Implementing proper storage and packaging facilities can reduce pineapple farmers' losses and make it easier for them to market their products year-round. Moreover, sorting and grading pineapple increases its price, enabling more effective marketing.

Conclusion: It has been shown that the transportation system has a substantial impact on pineapple distribution in the study area. Thus, it is logical to say that the transportation infrastructure should be upgraded in order to reduce pineapple post-harvest losses.
Highly Luminescent and Ultra‐Stable Perovskite Films with Excellent Self‐Healing Ability for Flexible Lighting and Wide Color Gamut Displays
Authors: Luo Chengzhao , Xia Wenlin , Ren Zhenwei , Shen Dongyang , Li Qinyi , Zheng Zhishuai , Li Jie , Ma Wenchen , Chen Yu
Published: April 2022

Metal halide perovskite quantum dots (QDs) and polymer composite films have witnessed extensive investigation in flexible optoelectronic devices, while the unsatisfactory environmental and mechanical properties of the composite films set substantial limitations for practical applications. Herein, highly luminescent perovskite QDs‐polymer composite films (QPFs) are fabricated with remarkable environmental and mechanical stabilities by incorporation of perovskite QDs into fluoroelastomer polymeric matrix. The stretchable QPFs show excellent self‐healing ability with micron‐ and centimeter‐scale cracks healed in dozens of minutes and hours, respectively, due to the strong dipole–dipole interaction between the CF bonds of fluoroelastomer. After careful optimization of QDs ratios, a flat and smooth film morphology is achieved with a uniform distribution of QDs, which promotes good optical properties with a long PL lifetime of 1213.75 ns and high photoluminescence quantum yields up to 96.1%, and super environmental and mechanical stability These merits of QPFs enable their practical applications in flexible white light‐emitting devices and wide color gamut displays with 124% of standard National Television Standards Committee and 96% of Recommendation 2020, respectively, exhibiting vivid pictures with high saturations for the object colors, indicating great potential toward practical applications.
Cascade Downregulation of the HER Family by a Dual‐Targeted Recombinant Protein–Drug Conjugate to Inhibit Tumor Growth and Metastasis
Authors: Yuan Yang , Zhou Sensen , Li Cheng , Zhang Xiaoke , Mao Hui , Chen Weizhi , Jiang Xiqun
Published: April 2022

Human epidermal growth factor receptor type 2 (HER2)‐targeted therapy can significantly improve the outcome of patients with HER2 positive cancer. However, relapse after this treatment remains a great challenge in the clinic due to tumor resistance, in which the HER network induces constitutive signal transduction. In addition, integrin receptors in the tumor extracellular matrix can mitigate the therapeutic effect of inhibitors to the growth factors receptors and tyrosine kinases. Here, the development of a recombinant protein (RP‐HI) and its drug conjugates (RPDC‐HI) to target both HER2 and integrin is reported. When simultaneously blocking HER2 and integrin by RP‐HI, functions of the HER family and their interactions with the integrin are disrupted by downregulated expressions of HER family members, leading to inhibition of several downstream signal pathways. In combination with targeted delivery of the anticancer agent, doxorubicin (DOX), RPDC‐HI significantly improves the tumor inhibition efficacy to 97.5% in treating HER2‐positive breast cancer, comparing to 34.3% for free DOX. RPDC‐HI shows even better antitumor efficiency than a monoclonal antibody, trastuzumab, when treating larger tumors. The developed dual‐targeted RPDC platform offers a new and promising strategy for treating HER2‐positive patients with synergistic therapeutic effects against tumor resistance to the conventional HER2‐targeted treatment.
Diverse clinical manifestations and intrafamilial variability due to an inherited recurrent MYRF variant
Authors: Gupta Neerja , Endrakanti Mounika , Gupta Noopur , Dadhwal Vatsla , Naini Kamal , Manchanda Smita , Khan Ragib , Jana Manisha
Published: April 2022

MYRF monoallelic variants have been described in syndromic forms characterized by cardiac‐urogenital syndrome and isolated nanophthalmos with/without minor systemic manifestations. We describe a large family with a paternally inherited pathogenic variant in MYRF that manifested as congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), cardiac and urogenital abnormalities, and/or nanophthalmos with significant intrafamilial variability.
Identifying best practices for disclosure of amyloid imaging results: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Fruijtier Agnetha D. , van der Schaar Jetske , van Maurik Ingrid S. , Zwan Marissa D. , Scheltens Philip , Bouwman Femke , Pijnenburg Yolande A.L. , van Berckel Bart N.M. , Ebenau Jarith , van der Flier Wiesje M. , Smets Ellen M.A. , Visser Leonie N.C.
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Empirical studies on effective communication for amyloid disclosure in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are lacking. We aimed to study the impact of six communication strategies.

Method

We performed a randomized controlled trial with seven randomly assigned, video‐vignette conditions: six emphasizing a communication strategy and one basic condition. All showed a scripted consultation of a neurologist disclosing positive amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) scan results to an MCI patient. Healthy individuals (N = 1017; mean age ± SD 64 ± 8, 808 (79%) female) were instructed to imagine themselves in the video, answered questionnaires assessing information recall, emotional state, and behavioral intentions, and evaluate the physician/information.

Results

“Risk best practice” resulted in highest free recall compared to other strategies (P < .05), except “emotional support”. Recall in “emotional support” was better compared to “basic‐‘ and elaborate information”(P < .05). “Risk best practice” resulted in the highest uncertainty (P < .001). “Teach‐back” and “emotional support” contributed to the highest evaluations (P ‐values < .01).

Conclusion

Risk communication best practices, attending to emotions, and teach‐back techniques enhance information recall of amyloid‐PET results, and could contribute to positive care evaluations.
Potentially inappropriate medications at admission among elderly patients transported to a tertiary emergency medical institution in Japan
Authors: Aida Kenta , Azuma Kazunari , Mishima Shiro , Ishii Yuri , Suzuki Shoji , Oda Jun , Honma Hiroshi
Published: April 2022

Aim

Potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) have been reported to be associated with lower adherence, higher rates of adverse events, and higher health‐care costs in elderly patients with high comorbidity. However, inappropriate prescribing has not been adequately reported in studies of patients transported to tertiary care hospitals. In this study, we investigated PIMs at the time of admission, on the basis of the prescription status of elderly patients admitted to a tertiary emergency room (ER).

Methods

We included 316 patients (168 men and 148 women, aged 75–97 years) who were admitted to our ER from September 2018 to August 2019, whose prescriptions were available on admission. Drugs that met the Screening Tool of Older Persons' Potentially Inappropriate Prescriptions (STOPP) criteria version 2 were defined as PIMs. The primary outcome was the proportion of older adults taking at least one PIM at admission.

Results

The proportion of patients taking PIMs at admission was 57% (n = 179). The most common PIMs were benzodiazepines, proton pump inhibitors, and nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. The total number of medications prescribed at admission, prescriptions from multiple institutions, and prescriptions from clinics were the risk factors for PIMs at admission (P < 0.01, P < 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

We must be careful to avoid inappropriate prescribing for patients transported to tertiary care hospitals who have numerous prescriptions at the time of admission, patients who receive prescriptions from multiple medical institutions, and patients who receive prescriptions from clinics.
Preparation of non‐swelling hydrogels and investigation on the adsorption performance of iron ions
Authors: Zhang Xin , Zhang Hong , Wang Bo , Zeng Xu , Wang Jun , Ren Bo , Yang Xiaodong , Bai Xuefeng
Published: April 2022

We prepared a novel cellulose‐based non‐swelling hydrogel material PAAS‐CMC‐BPEI by a one‐step method. A large number of strong hydrogen bonds were formed between carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and sodium polyacrylate (PAAS) and ethylene imine polymer (BPEI). The hydrogel did not show any swelling even after being immersed in water for 6 months, and the hydrogel can maintain its original function and size for a more extended period. SEM tests visually demonstrate the structural characteristics of the hydrogel, whose tight three‐dimensional network structure imparts a macroscopically non‐swelling property to the hydrogel. This non‐swelling property maintains the initial state and function of the hydrogel and possesses the properties of the material itself well. The FTIR test proves that the main factor in the formation of this tight structure is the formation of a large number of internal hydrogen bonds. In addition, the PAAS‐CMC‐BPEI hydrogel exhibited high adsorption efficiency for ferrous ions in water. The adsorption conforms to a quasi‐secondary kinetic equation and is mainly chemisorption. The use of this non‐swelling hydrogel for the adsorption of ferrous ions holds promise for efficient, simple and fast operation in the field of wastewater treatment in the future.
Sperm morphology and testicular histology of the polyandric species Leptodactylus podicipinus (Anura: Leptodactylidae) from an urban environment
Authors: Bordin Rafael Oliveira , Fernandes Carlos Eurico dos Santos , Franco‐Belussi Lilian , Leão Taynara Ribeiro Farias , Sanabria Marciana
Published: April 2022

Anurans have a high reproductive diversity, which is closely associated with testicular dynamics and sperm production. This variety in reproduction is modulated by the sexual characteristics of reproductive strategies, such as polyandry. Leptodactylus podicipinus has high reproductive plasticity, wide geographical distribution, and polyandric behavior. Although aspects of the testes and sperm of this species are known, knowledge about the relationship between these aspects and reproductive investment is scarce. The present study evaluated the morphological characteristics of the testes and sperm in an urban environment. We used 11 sexually mature males from the city of Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The specimens were obtained from night excursions between April and September, the months that constitute the post‐rainy season. The biometric data (snout‐vent length, testes, and body mass) were associated with sperm parameters (length of the spermatozoon head and tail). Stereological analyses of sperm morphology and the testes were performed. The results showed correlations between testis mass and spermatozoon length, which were positively related to head length and negatively related to tail length. The locular area and tail length were also negatively correlated. The percentage of normal spermatozoa was 97%; however, some sperm heads and tails exhibited different morphologies from the pattern described for the species. The germinative structure comprised more than 50% of the locular area composed of spermatozoa. The results of this study contribute to the knowledge of aspects related to the reproductive biology of L. podicipinus obtained from an urban environment.
Integration of virtual microscopy podcasts in the histology discipline in osteopathic medical school: Learning outcomes
Authors: Sakthi‐Velavan Sumathilatha , Zahl Sarah
Published: April 2022

Virtual microscopy podcasts (VMPs) are narrative recordings of digital histology images. This study evaluated the outcomes of integrating the VMPs into teaching histology to osteopathic medical students. The hypothesis was that incorporating virtual microscopy podcasts as supplementary histology resources to the curriculum would have a positive impact on student performance and satisfaction. Sixty‐one podcasts of dynamic microscopic images were created using screen recordings of the digital slides. The VMPs were integrated as supplementary histology resources in multiple courses during the first and second years of the medical curriculum for three classes, a total of 477 osteopathic medical students. A voluntary and anonymous survey was obtained from the students using a questionnaire that included two open‐ended questions. The overall performance of the three classes on the histology content of the preclinical course examinations was compared to historical controls of the previous two classes that did not have access to the VMPs. Most students indicated that the podcasts enabled more efficient study time and improved their confidence in the histology content on examinations. The findings indicated a positive association between podcast viewing and efficient study time utilization and class performance. The class average scores of the three consecutive cohorts that used the VMPs progressively increased by 7.69%, 14.88%, and 14.91% compared to the controls. A summary of students' feedback and academic performance supported that integration of the VMPs into Histology teaching improved the learning experience. The findings align with previous studies on the effectiveness of multimedia‐based teaching in histology laboratory modules.
Regulation of Oct4 in stem cells and neural crest cells
Authors: Patel Ivanshi , Parchem Ronald J.
Published: April 2022

During embryonic development, cells gradually restrict their developmental potential as they exit pluripotency and differentiate into various cell types. The POU transcription factor Oct4 (encoded by Pou5f1) lies at the center of the pluripotency machinery that regulates stemness and differentiation in stem cells, and is required for reprogramming of somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Several studies have revealed that Oct4 and other stemness genes are also expressed in multipotent cell populations such as neural crest cells (NCCs), and are required to expand the NCC developmental potential. Transcriptional regulation of Oct4 has been studied extensively in stem cells during early embryonic development and reprogramming, but not in NCCs. Here, we review how Oct4 is regulated in pluripotent stem cells, and address some of the gaps in knowledge about regulation of the pluripotency network in NCCs.
Expanding the targeting scope of FokI‐dCas nuclease systems with SpRY and Mb2Cas12a
Authors: Cheng Yanhao , Sretenovic Simon , Zhang Yingxiao , Pan Changtian , Huang Ji , Qi Yiping
Published: April 2022

CRISPR‐Cas9 and Cas12a are widely used sequence‐specific nucleases (SSNs) for genome editing. The nuclease domains of Cas proteins can induce DNA double strand breaks upon RNA guided DNA targeting. Zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs) and Transcription Activator‐Like Effector Nucleases (TALENs) have been popular SSNs prior to CRISPR. Both ZFNs and TALENs are based on reconstitution of two monomers with each consisting of a DNA binding domain and a FokI nuclease domain. Inspired by the configuration of ZFNs and TALENs, dimeric FokI‐dCas9 systems were previously demonstrated in human cells. Such configuration, based on a pair of guide RNAs (gRNAs), offers great improvement on targeting specificity. To expand the targeting scope of dimeric FokI‐dCas systems, the PAM (protospacer adjacent motif)‐less SpRY Cas9 variant and the PAM‐relaxed Mb2Cas12a system were explored. Rice cells showed that FokI‐dSpRY had more robust editing efficiency than a paired SpRY nickase system. Furthermore, a dimeric FokI‐dMb2Cas12a system was developed that displayed comparable editing activity to Mb2Cas12a nuclease in rice cells. Finally, a single‐chain FokI‐FokI‐dMb2Cas12a system was developed that cuts DNA outside its targeting sequence, which could be useful for many versatile applications. Together, this work greatly expanded the FokI based CRISPR‐Cas systems for genome editing.
The impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on pediatric chronic illness groups
Authors: Logan Beth A.
Published: April 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic has had profound impacts on children and families, with widescale disruptions in many aspects of individual, family, school, and peer functioning. For children and adolescents, the pandemic has contributed to increased prevalence of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and suicidality, particularly among adolescents.
Electrochemical Mass Spectrometry: Evolution of the Cell Setup for On‐Line Investigation of Products and Screening of Electrocatalysts for Carbon Dioxide Reduction
Authors: Queiroz Adriana C. , Souza Maykon L. , Camilo Mariana R. , Silva Wanderson O. , Cantane Daniel A. , Messias Igor , Pinto Maria R. , Nagao Raphael , Lima Fabio H. B.
Published: April 2022

One of the most important current topics in the renewable and sustainable energy scenario is the CO2 electro‐reduction reaction (CO2RR), which is an alternative and important route for its conversion into various high value‐added chemicals, therefore making up a CO2 recycling process. Despite its importance and the works already developed in this field, many challenges still need to be overcome for CO2RR to reach high values of efficiency and selectivity. This is even more challenging considering that this reaction occurs with the transfer of several electrons, making the investigation and elucidation of the reaction mechanism a real need. Thus, several characterization techniques have been employed, and specially, the on‐line Electrochemical Mass Spectrometry (EC‐MS) technique emerges as a powerful tool, thus making possible to improve the understanding of reaction pathways, through the identification of products and intermediaries, and allowing the screening of electrocatalyst potentials for CO2RR. Herein, we present the evolution of adaptations of general electrochemical cell designs for the study of the CO2RR.
Electrochemical Synthesis Methods of Metal‐Organic Frameworks and Their Environmental Analysis Applications: A Review
Authors: Ren Hao , Wei Tianxiang
Published: April 2022

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have been increasingly utilized in the field of modern environmental analysis. Among the various synthesis approaches of MOFs, electrochemical synthesis methods have attracted much attention due to the green advantages in the aspects of mild preparation and convenient control for improving the probability of MOFs’ continuous and large‐scale production. In this review, from theory to application, the mechanisms of different electrochemical synthesis methods for MOFs were summarized and emphasized. They provided theoretical guidance for synthesizing new MOFs and developing novel eco‐friendly electrochemical synthesis methods for MOFs’ application in environmental analysis. Moreover, the applications of MOFs in environmental analysis field in recent years were comprehensively illustrated and the advantages and disadvantages of electrochemical synthesis methods to prepare MOFs as environmental analytical nanomaterials were evaluated. Finally, some suggestions for the optimization of electrochemical synthesis methods for MOFs and their future opportunities in environmental analytical applications were proposed.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of the impact of the left atrial appendage closure on left atrial function
Authors: Mostafa Mostafa Reda , Magdi Mohamed , Al‐abdouh Ahmad , Abusnina Waiel , Elbanna Mostafa , Abdelazeem Basel , Renjithal Sarath Lal Mannumbeth , Mamas Mamas A , Shah Jaffer
Published: April 2022

Background

Left atrial (LA) appendage closure (LAAC) is effective in patients with atrial fibrillation who are not candidates for long‐term anticoagulation. However, the impact of LAAC on LA function is unknown. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of LAAC on atrial function.

Methods

This meta‐analysis was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. A search strategy was designed to utilize PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, and Google scholar for studies showing the effect of LAAC on the LA function from inception to November 20, 2021. The standardized mean difference (SMD) was calculated from the means and standard deviations.

Results

Of 247 studies initially identified, 8 studies comprising 260 patients were included in the final analysis. There was a significant increase in LA emptying fraction following LAAC compared with preoperative function (SMD: 0.53; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.04–1.01; p = .03; I2 = 75%). In contrast, there were no significant differences in LA volume (SMD: −0.07; 95% CI: −0.82–0.69; p = .86; I2 = 92%) peak atrial longitudinal strain (SMD: 0.50; 95% CI: −0.08–1.08; p = .09; I2 = 89%), peak atrial contraction strain (SMD: 0.38; 95% CI: −0.22–0.99; p = .21; I2 = 81%), strain during atrial contraction (SMD: −0.24; 95% CI: −0.61–0.13; p = .20; I2 = 0%), strain during ventricular systole (SMD: 0.47; 95% CI: −0.32–1.27; p = .24; I2 = 89%), strain during ventricular diastole (SMD: 0.09; 95% CI: −0.32–0.51; p = .66; I2 = 65%).

Conclusion

LAAC is associated with improvement in the left atrial emptying fraction, but did not significantly influence other parameters.
Emotion regulation strategies among individuals with borderline personality disorder relative to other groups: A review
Authors: Sorgi‐Wilson Kristen M. , McCloskey Michael S.
Published: April 2022

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is associated with difficulties in emotion regulation (ER) abilities. Investigations of ER strategies in BPD have been less robust. This systematic review identified 55 studies comparing ER strategy use between individuals diagnosed with BPD versus psychiatric and non‐psychiatric comparison groups. Individuals with BPD reported more frequent maladaptive and less frequent adaptive ER strategy use than non‐psychiatric controls. Results were less consistent relative to psychiatric comparison groups, though individuals with BPD reported greater self‐criticism and avoidance. Groups responded comparably to instructed use of adaptive (but not maladaptive) ER strategies. This body of research would benefit from further examination of the roles of psychiatric comorbidity and problematic behaviours in the relationship between BPD and ER strategies.