bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(Re)productive Tensions: Aletheiac Revealing in Morisot’s “Cradle” and “Wet Nurse”
Authors: Drouillard Jill ,   Heidegger Circle
Published: July 2021

Martin Heidegger’s Origin of the Work of Art moves beyond an aesthetic reading of the artwork that focuses on questions of judgment towards a hermeneutical understanding of art as a realm where truth happens. Such a truth presents itself as an aletheiac unfolding of the strife between Earth and World, a tension revelatory of our historical situation. To better understand this truth, Heidegger turns to a painting of Van Gogh’s shoes, providing an account of the artwork that moves beyond the “thingly” character of the shoes to its “equipmental being”. That he attributes Van Gogh’s shoes to a peasant woman is telling in that her being female points to a gendered relation between woman and Earth. However, in only focusing on the equipmental being of her shoes and her labor in the fields, a historical truth about the tension between her labor of reproduction and production, a strain inherent in the Earth/World dynamic becomes eclipsed. This tension is felt as a reckoning of, not only one’s finitude, but of one’s natality. Heidegger looks to Van Gogh’s shoes and analyzes how toils in the field set up a world; however, as Gaston Bachelard notes, “Before he is ‘cast into the world,’ as claimed by certain hasty metaphysicians, man is laid in the cradle of the house.2” To explore our natal origin that begins in the cradle and stretches along to our death, this paper presents a hermeneutical reading of two works of art, Berthe Morisot’s “Cradle” and “Wet Nurse”, suggesting that in seeking an origin of the work of art and the tension that resides there, an understanding of reproduction (and its relation to production) should complement Heidegger’s treatment of the artwork.
Philosophical Therapy Through Linguistic Construction
Authors: Jadhav Aaditya ,   National Philosophical Counseling Association
Published: July 2021

This paper makes attempts to argue that language inevitably affects emotions, and philosophical therapy is possible through deconstruction of language; here the horizon of language is extended not only to its traditional usage, but also as thoughts. Emotions are perceived through our conditioned thoughts and hence by an analysis of the latter, the former will become clearer. The paper is a literature review of a few books by Jiddu Krishnamurti, a contemporary Indian Philosopher; and a book on Buddhist logic. Since the paper is a literature review, it does not have any practical claim to support the points and hence is a speculative approach towards therapy. The paper also does not extend its claims to psychological views on language, rather restricts itself to purely philosophical approach.
No Mind is an Island
Authors: Raabe Peter ,   National Philosophical Counseling Association
Published: July 2021

This essay disputes the approach to so-called 'mental illness' in which the individual patient is presumed to be the locus of hi or her 'disorder,' and should therefore be treated with brain-altering drugs. My position is predicated on the conviction that no one's mind is identical to their brain. Nor is anyone's mind a totally isolated island in the dynamic sea of human interactions and cognitions, and should not be treated as such.
Systemic Dehumanization in the Age of Pandemic Terrorism
Authors: Reed Ross ,   National Philosophical Counseling Association
Published: July 2021

Systemic existential conditions are indelible aspects of a client's reflective and nonreflective modes of consciousness, and therefore fall within the purview of philosophical counseling. This paper focuses on the experience of the dehumanization that is a function of the monetization of all aspects of post-modern neoliberal society. Monetization demands radical self-abandonment, self-anesthesia, auto-aggressive self-exploitation and addiction for functionality within the system. The bankrupt logic of pandemic terrorism confirms that monetization has become the preeminent measure of value. Monetization distorts both reason and value, concealing a covert nihilism masquerading as the new metaphysics. The symbiotic natural world evidences a level of cooperation and coexistence that escapes monetization. Therefore, a monetized society is a society at odds with the world ecosystemand life itself. Caught in a labyrinth ofmonetized dehumanization, clients often participate in the fictional metanarrative of belief in unlimited individual possibility as a hedge against anxiety, depression, powerlessness, anomie, and the logical loop of cognitive dissonance.
Self-Love In Logic-Based Therapy
Authors: Guajardo Ivan ,   National Philosophical Counseling Association
Published: July 2021

The phenomenon of self-love elicits conflicting reactions. Some believe is the key to happiness, while others are skeptical. This essay defines self-love as wholehearted concern for one's well-being, argues that it does not imply selfishness, arrogance, or vanity, discusses reasons to value self-love, and describes ways Logic-Based Therapy can be used to help people love themselves.
On the Therapeutic Value of Contemplation
Authors: Costanzo Jason ,   National Philosophical Counseling Association
Published: July 2021

In recent times, we have seen a resurgence of interest in the application of philosophy as a therapeutic for the purpose of alleviating the existential ills of human life. Within this paper, it is argued that not only can philosophy be applied as a therapeutic, but that the very act of doing philosophy is therapeutic. The paper begins with a discussion of human nature as bound to finitude and the suffering of existence. The necessity to labor along with the need for relief from labor in the form of recreation and play is then discussed. Play is thereafter distinguished from leisure, and the concept of philosophical contemplation (theoria), following Aristotle, is introduced. It is argued that the activity of contemplation results in relief from the suffering of existence, and that its exercise may in consequence be considered a kind of therapeutic.
Introduction to the EARN Theory of Well-Being and Justice, for Philosophical Consulting and Beyond
Authors: Lang Martha ,   National Philosophical Counseling Association
Published: July 2021

The EARN Theory of Well-Being includes a practical model for ascertaining and analyzing the well-being of individuals or groups; in its most recent iteration, EARN Theory includes insights from Lang's Network Theory of Well-Being, Revamped, which states that well-being is a matter of instantiating a holistically authentic positive causal network. Both EARN Theory and the Network Theory of Well-Being, Revamped are informed by the science of well-being and guided by a sense of justice. Presented as an inference to the best explanation, the argument for EARN Theory is naturalistic while also inclusive of existential and moral considerations. EARN Theory gives us something to strive for where our well-being is concerned, and it helps us to articulate personal and societal reasons that our well-being gets derailed or diminished at times. EARN Theory has numerous practical applications, including philosophy-based consulting, self-help endeavors, and public policy reform that promotes a renewed notion of justice.
La diversificación geográfica en los destinos de exportación de las empresas y cooperativas agroalimentarias. Influencia de los factores externos para su selección
Authors: Cos Sánchez Pilar , Escardíbul Ferrá Blanca , Colom Gorgues Antonio
Published: July 2021

La diversificación geográfica y la selección de mercados exteriores, aunque generalmente consideradas de forma independiente, conforman un amplio ámbito de estudio. La relación entre ambas disciplinas se ha visto obstaculizada por la multitud de enfoques de investigación en la selección de mercados y por su mayor estudio con otras decisiones estratégicas de internacionalización. A su vez, la importancia de la internacionalización para las cooperativas se hace evidente, identificándose como uno de los factores clave en su competitividad. Sin embargo, sus limitaciones internas y externas dificultan su expansión exterior. El propósito de este trabajo es determinar la influencia de los factores externos de selección de mercados exteriores en la tendencia a su diversificación, sobre una muestra de un tejido exportador concreto. Los datos de los países destino se recogen de diversas fuentes secundarias, tales como el Banco Mundial, la OCDE, la OMC, el World Economic Forum y el Hofstede Centre. Los resultados demuestran que el desarrollo económico y el tamaño del mercado se configuran como variables influyentes en la diversificación de destinos de exportación, no afectando, no obstante, la distancia psicológica. Las cooperativas analizadas, como parte de la economía estudiada, podrían valerse de los resultados obtenidos como referencia en el proceso de selección de mercados exteriores de destinos menos frecuentados, sobre todo por la tendencia de una mayor concentración de sus exportaciones a países de la UE.
Laboratório de diálogo ecumênico e inter-religioso na Diocese de Ponta Grossa, Paraná
Authors: Bauwelz Joanicio Fernando
Published: July 2021

Este texto se propõe a ser um relato de pesquisa desenvolvido em um triênio, de 2018 a 2020, que aconteceu na Diocese de Ponta Grossa, Paraná. É um laboratório de diálogo ecumênico e inter-religioso desenvolvido para despertar a sensibilidade sobre o tema da unidade dos cristãos e o diálogo com outras religiões, para fazer uma revisão das bibliografias produzidas na diocese, e contribuir com um aprofundamento acadêmico sobre o tema. Foi proposto para os estudantes de teologia do Instituto de Filosofia e Teologia Mater Ecclesiae (IFITEME) da Diocese de Ponta Grossa. Num segundo momento, surgiu a proposta de sair do ambiente acadêmico para levar o resultado das pesquisas para fora da sala de aula e alcançar as realidades eclesiais que possam se beneficiar e colaborar no caminho da unidade e do diálogo. O COVID-19 atrasou algumas etapas, mas a da Campanha da Fraternidade Ecumênica, de 2021, abriu novas possibilidades para completar as etapas propostas.
Responses of nitrogen efficiency and antioxidant system of summer maize to waterlogging stress under different tillage
Authors: Ren Baizhao , Hu Juan , Liu Peng , Zhao Bin , Zhang Jiwang
Published: July 2021

Waterlogging was one of the main abiotic stresses affecting maize yield and growth in the North China Plain, while ridge tillage effectually improved soil environment, enhanced crop stress resistance to waterlogging, and increased grain yield of waterlogged maize. In order to explore the responses of nitrogen (N) efficiency and antioxidant system of summer maize to waterlogging stress under different tillage, a field experiment was conducted to explore N use efficiency, leaf activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA) content of waterlogged maize Denghai 605 (DH605) and Zhengdan 958 (ZD958) under different tillage system (ridge planting and flat planting). Our results showed that ridge tillage was beneficial to ameliorate waterlogging damages on antioxidant system by increasing SOD, POD, and CAT activities, and decreasing MDA content. Moreover, ridge tillage significantly increased N efficiency of waterlogged maize. N translocation amount (NTA), N translocation efficiency (NTE), N contribution proportion (NCP), N harvest index (NHI), and N use efficiency (NUE) of waterlogging treatment under ridge planting system (W-V3+R) for DH605 was increased by 108%, 69%, 60%, 8% and 16%, while ZD958 increased by 248%, 132%, 146%, 13% and 16%, respectively, compared to those of waterlogging treatment under flat planting system (W-V3). Ultimately, ridge tillage led to a significant yield improvement by 39% and 50% for DH605 and ZD958, respectively, compared to that of W-V3. In conclusion, ridge tillage was conducive to retard leaf aging, and enhance nitrogen efficiency, thereby resulting in a yield improvement of waterlogged summer maize.
ensembleTax: an R package for determinations of ensemble taxonomic assignments of phylogenetically-informative marker gene sequences
Authors: Catlett Dylan , Son Kevin , Liang Connie
Published: July 2021

Background

High-throughput sequencing of phylogenetically informative marker genes is a widely used method to assess the diversity and composition of microbial communities. Taxonomic assignment of sampled marker gene sequences (referred to as amplicon sequence variants, or ASVs) imparts ecological significance to these genetic data. To assign taxonomy to an ASV, a taxonomic assignment algorithm compares the ASV to a collection of reference sequences (a reference database) with known taxonomic affiliations. However, many taxonomic assignment algorithms and reference databases are available, and the optimal algorithm and database for a particular scientific question is often unclear. Here, we present the ensembleTax R package, which provides an efficient framework for integrating taxonomic assignments predicted with any number of taxonomic assignment algorithms and reference databases to determine ensemble taxonomic assignments for ASVs.

Methods

The ensembleTax R package relies on two core algorithms: taxmapper and assign.ensembleTax. The taxmapper algorithm maps taxonomic assignments derived from one reference database onto the taxonomic nomenclature (a set of taxonomic naming and ranking conventions) of another reference database. The assign.ensembleTax algorithm computes ensemble taxonomic assignments for each ASV in a data set based on any number of taxonomic assignments determined with independent methods. Various parameters allow analysts to prioritize obtaining either more ASVs with more predicted clade names or more robust clade name predictions supported by multiple independent methods in ensemble taxonomic assignments.

Results

The ensembleTax R package is used to compute two sets of ensemble taxonomic assignments for a collection of protistan ASVs sampled from the coastal ocean. Comparisons of taxonomic assignments predicted by individual methods with those predicted by ensemble methods show that conservative implementations of the ensembleTax package minimize disagreements between taxonomic assignments predicted by individual and ensemble methods, but result in ASVs with fewer ranks assigned taxonomy. Less conservative implementations of the ensembleTax package result in an increased fraction of ASVs classified at all taxonomic ranks, but increase the number of ASVs for which ensemble assignments disagree with those predicted by individual methods.

Discussion

We discuss how implementation of the ensembleTax R package may be optimized to address specific scientific objectives based on the results of the application of the ensembleTax package to marine protist communities. While further work is required to evaluate the accuracy of ensemble taxonomic assignments relative to taxonomic assignments predicted by individual methods, we also discuss scenarios where ensemble methods are expected to improve the accuracy of taxonomy prediction for ASVs.
A GIS Based Methodology to Obtain the Hydrological Response to Storm Events of Small Coastal Basins, Prone to Flash Flooding
Authors: Kotinas V. A.
Published: July 2021

The present study aims to investigate the hydrological response of small coastal watersheds to storm events. Areas around the Mediterranean Sea are usually characterized by streams with intermittent flows and flash floods are common. Firstly, we analyze the geomorphological, soil and land cover characteristics of the watershed in order to estimate their effect on surface runoff. Furthermore, the rainfall characteristics of an extreme event that caused flash flooding in the past are analyzed. By combining these factors, we are able to predict the response of this basin to severe storm events. The study area is located in the island of Samos, in Eastern Greece, where flash flood events are usual and pose a risk to areas located around rivers. In this area runoff is intermittent, occurring mainly during storm events and there is a lack of discharge or other instrumental measurements. By applying the SCS-CN method we estimate the response of two of the largest watersheds in Samos Island, through the construction of a Synthetic Unit Hydrograph (SUH). Firstly, we examined the record of historic floods in the area, selecting a large flash flood event (November 2001) and then obtained the daily rainfall data, which are used by the SCS method for the calculations. We applied the SCS methodology in order to estimate various parameters (e.g. lag time, time of concentration, maximum discharge), which also required the calculation of the Curve Number (CN) for each watershed. During this event (136 mm rainfall), we calculated a direct runoff (excess rainfall) of 44%-48% for these watersheds. This methodology can be particularly useful in simulating the hydrological response of small Mediterranean watersheds and to introduce better strategies for the management of the whole drainage basin.
Mosquito Bed Net Preferences and Efficacy in the Prevention of Gestational Malaria in Yaounde, Cameroon
Authors: Ndamukong-Nyanga Judith Lum , Flore Tchanga Chanceline , Virginie Ngo Batandi Helen , Celestine Fegue
Published: July 2021

Malaria prevention methods are diverse. Their availability sometimes does not guarantee effective usage and the use of each method in isolation may not provide the necessary results for the fight against malaria. Pregnant women are relatively more vulnerable and so it is recommended that they should be protected against malaria. Proper protection will require the use of long lasting insecticide treated mosquito bed nets as major malaria prevention method. This study was designed to find out malaria prevalence and factors influencing the use of mosquito bet nets among pregnant women of Biyem-Assi Health District. Information on the knowledge of malaria and use of malaria prevention methods, especially bed nets was collected from 302 pregnant women attending prenatal clinics in health institutions within the Biyem-Assi Health District of Yaounde VI subdivision using a pretested questionnaire. Thick smear was prepared for screening Plasmodium parasites. Analysis was done using EPI INFO version 16 (Chicago IL USA) and test of Chi 2. The study revealed that malaria prevalence was 48.5%. The shape of mosquito net had a significant (P = 0.05) effect on its use and a reduction on prevalence of malaria. The use of mosquito bed net was 47.7% while some of the women (52.3%) did not use it. Profession significantly influenced (P ˂ 0.04) the use of mosquito bed nets. Some of the women did not use mosquito bed nets for different reasons such as heat, forgetfulness, neglect, dislike, etc. The shape and color influenced the use, but this was not significant. Use of mosquito bed nets as major malaria prevention methods is not considered as priority by pregnant women. Sensitization campaigns by government and NGOs should reduce malaria prevalence during pregnancy and give a priority position to mosquito bed nets.
Microbial Contaminants on Inanimate Surfaces and Non-critical Instruments at a Major Reference Hospital in Makurdi, Nigeria
Authors: Akpenpuun A. K. , Nyinoh I. W.
Published: July 2021

Aims: There have been links between healthcare-acquired infections, contaminated surfaces, and medical instruments. The aim of this study was to: (i) investigate the variety of microorganisms that persist on inanimate/noncritical devices at Benue State University Teaching Hospital Makurdi, Nigeria, as a possible source of healthcare-acquired bacterial and fungal infections, and (ii) determine the prevalence of microorganisms on the instruments sampled.

Study design: This study was a hospital-based cross-sectional study.

Place and duration of study: Microbiology Laboratory (Bacteriology, Media/Washroom, Serology, and Phlebotomy Units), Benue State University Teaching Hospital Makurdi, Nigeria, between January 2021 and May 2021.

Methodology: Swab specimens were collected from  tables (14), sinks (8), hand jars (7), scissors (5), inoculating loops (7), refrigerators (6), and autoclaves (3) using sterile stick swabs. The bacterial and fungal investigation was performed using standard culture tests-gram stain, colony morphology, and biochemical tests.

Results: All the samples tested positive for either bacteria or fungi, indicating a contamination rate of 100%. Tables were the most contaminated (28%), sinks (16%), inoculating loops (14%), hand jars (14%), refrigerators (12%), scissors (10%), and autoclaves (6%). Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp., Pseudomonas aeuroginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, and the fungi Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans were identified.

Conclusion: The results of this study have shown that hospital surfaces and healthcare-associated equipment is a potential source of nosocomial infections for patients, visitors, and health care workers. Hospitals should enforce regular cleaning and decontamination to forestall the occurrence of nosocomial infections.
Anhedonia in Schizophrenia and Major Depressive Disorder Clinical and Functional MRI Study
Authors: Elsarnagawy Amr Mohamad , Elshafeay Rasha Ahmad , Badawy Adel Abd-Elkarim , Ramadan Ehab Sayed , Shamma Gamal Ibrahim
Published: July 2021

Background: Anhedonia, is defined as reduced capacity to gain pleasure from pleasurable experiences, is a key symptom of major depression. Several studies had investigated anhedonia in schizophrenia and major depressive disorder, using different psychometric and radiological assessment tools with controversy results in either severity of anhedonia or radiological findings. The aim of this study was to differentiate the nature of the issue of anhedonia in schizophrenia versus major depressive disorder; from clinical and brain function part of view, and to study different variables in this regard.

Methods: This study was carried on 60 participants who were divided into three groups: Group 1: 20 schizophrenic patients, diagnosed according to DSM-5. The symptoms of schizophrenic patients must include anhedonia as a main symptom, Group 2: 20 patients with major depressive disorder according to DSM-5 criteria, and anhedonia was one of their prominent symptoms, Group 3: 20 control subjects.

Results: Our results revealed statically significant differences between participants as regards age of onset, occupational career. Statically significant differences were found between 3 groups. Most of patients in group 1 lacks the interest for social activities and intimate relationships. Statically significant Difference was found between patients in both groups compared to controls. Striatal activity (mainly caudate) was significantly diminished in group 2 (P value <0.001) and group 1 (P value 0.002) relative to controls. Prefrontal activity (ventromedial area ''vmPFC'' and dorsolateral area ''DLPFC'') was increased significantly in group 2 more than control group (P value 0.034). Group 1 shows significantly decreased activation than controls (P value 0.019).  Significant differences were found between group 1 and 2 (P value <0.001). Orbito-frontal activity was increased significantly in depressed patients more than group 1 (P <0.001) and controls (P =0.019).

Conclusions: Anhedonia is a highly disabling symptom in patients with schizophrenia or MDD, associated with poor outcome. Depressed anhedonic patients have higher incidence of suicidal ideas, thoughts, and behavior. Depressed patients showed significant striatal hypoactivation associated with hyper activation of prefrontal and orbitofrontal areas. Schizophrenic patients showed diminished activation at striatal areas and frontal cortex.  We fail to find significant correlation between severity of anhedonia in both patient groups and degree of fMRI activation in different brain areas involved in reward processing.
Diagnosis of Bacterial Meningitis and AMR Profile Using Molecular and Immunological Techniques
Authors: Parsodkar Rucha P. , Husain Aliabbas A. , Mudey Gargi D. , Singh Lokendra R. , Kashyap Rajpal S.
Published: July 2021

Background: Bacterial meningitis (BM) is severe complication of central nervous system (CNS) and is often associated with high mortality and morbidity rates if not timely diagnosed and treated. Current diagnostic tools for BM and drug resistance suffer from lack of sensitivity due to paucibacillary nature of Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Objectives: The objective of the study is to develop rapid and efficacious immunological tools (Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and Lateral flow) for diagnosis of BM in hospital settings. In addition, in-house molecular assays will be developed for diagnosis of extended spectrum beta lactamases and Carbapenems drug resistance in community and hospital acquired BM infection

Methodology: A prospective observational study will be carried out in patients admitted in IPD awards of CIIMS, Nagpur. Diagnosis of BM will be done using conventional gold standards and by in-house designed nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for 8 etiological pathogens. An in-house ELISA assay will be standardized and optimized based on culture filtrates antigen isolated from clinical isolates of etiological pathogens associated with BM for immunological diagnosis. For diagnosis of drug resistance, in-house conventional PCR assay targeting ESBL (TEM, SHV and CTX-M) and Carbapenems (NDM, OXA-48, VIM) resistance genes will be standardized and optimized. The sensitivity and specificity of developed test will be determined by standard ROC curve using medical software. The diagnostic accuracy will be determined based on concordance with gold standards.

Expected results: A simple, rapid ELISA assay will be developed for etiological diagnosis BM in hospital settings.  In addition, in house molecular assay will be developed for rapid identification of ESBL and Carbapenems drug resistance in BM cases.

Conclusion: A simple, rapid, efficacious immunological and molecular tools for diagnosis of BM and drug resistance will be developed for improved management of cases in hospital settings as governance of bacterial meningitis in India is poor.
Management of Hypertension in Elderly Pregnant Women with IVF Conception: A Case Report
Authors: Kawale Aparna M. , Patil Manoj
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Hypertensive complications associated with pregnancy are the primary cause of maternal and fetal morbidity. Early development of cardiovascular disease is also anticipated relatively early after pregnancy is terminated. Over the past 20 years, infertility treatments have steadily increased and proven effective in achieving significant successful conception rates and live birth rates, even among women younger than 35 years of age.

Symptoms and important clinical findings: A 45 year sold female was admitted in AVBRH on date 22/01/2021 with chief complaint of breathing difficulty (elderly G5P1D1A3 with 28 weeks of gestational age)having history of previous LSCS with IVF conception with gestational hypertension.

Obstetric history: Patient had bad obstetric history of three abortionsand one still-birth. In 2017 she had got the menopause. After menopause she took the treatment in AVBRH Sawangi (M) Wardha and got the regular menses.After regular menses, shereceived IVF cycle and she was conceived in 2nd IVF cycle.

The main diagnoses, therapeutic interventions, and outcomes: After physical examination and investigations, this case was diagnosed having 28 weeks of gestation with hypertension. Patient had previous history of LSCS.Patient was treated with antihypertensive drugs to reduce the symptoms of eclampsia. Alsoshe was provided calcium supplement and iron supplement. Present case was stable but ultrasonography revealedsign of stage I- intra uterine growth restriction.

Nursing perspectives: Fluid replacement i.e. DNS and RL, monitoring offetal heart rate and vital signs per hourly.

Conclusion: Conception with in vitro fertilization have increased risk of gestational hypertension as well as fetal complications like intra uterine growth restriction. But timely treatment and management improves the outcome of pregnancy.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Risk of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Among Medicaid Recipients
Authors: Case Siobhan M. , Feldman Candace H. , Guan Hongshu , Stevens Emma , Kubzansky Laura D. , Koenen Karestan C. , Costenbader Karen H.
Published: July 2021

Objective

We studied posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a severe trauma‐related mental disorder, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) risk in a large, diverse population enrolled in Medicaid, a US government‐sponsored health insurance program for low‐income individuals.

Methods

We identified SLE cases and controls among patients ages 18–65 years enrolled in Medicaid for ≥12 months in the 29 most populated US states from 2007 to 2010. SLE and PTSD case statuses were defined based on validated patterns of International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes. Index date was the date of the first SLE code. Controls had no SLE codes but had another inpatient or outpatient code on the index date and were matched 1:10 to cases by age, sex, and race. Conditional logistic regressions calculated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the association of PTSD with incident SLE, adjusting for smoking, obesity, oral contraceptive use, and other covariates.

Results

A total of 10,942 incident SLE cases were matched to 109,420 controls. The prevalence of PTSD was higher in SLE cases, at 10.74 cases of PTSD per 1,000 person‐years (95% CI 9.37–12.31) versus 7.83 cases (95% CI 7.42–8.27) in controls. The multivariable‐adjusted OR for SLE among those with PTSD was 2.00 (95% CI 1.64–2.46).

Conclusion

In this large, racially and sociodemographically diverse US population, we found patients with a prior PTSD diagnosis had twice the odds of a subsequent diagnosis of SLE. Studies are necessary to clarify the mechanisms driving the observed association and to inform possible interventions.
Electrochemical and Nanomechanical Properties of TiO2 Ceramic Filler Li‐Ion Composite Gel Polymer Electrolytes for Li Metal Batteries
Authors: Pan Xiaona , Yang Peixia , Guo Yue , Zhao Kejie , Xi Baojuan , Lin Feng , Xiong Shenglin
Published: July 2021

Ionically conductive polymers are a promising family of electrolytes for electrochemical devices, including batteries, and flexible electronics. The polymer electrolytes with an excellent mechanical property probably can inhibit the dendrites growth during charging/discharging. Herein, the mechanical properties of an N−methyl−N−propyl piperidinium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide/poly(vinylidene fluoride‐hexafluoropropylene) gel polymer electrolyte is improved through compositing with %TiO2 nanoparticles. The gel polymer electrolyte shows increased loss modulus after compositing with 5 wt% TiO2, indicating that the inorganic nanoparticles can increase the viscous response of polymer electrolytes. The Li‐ion conductivity shows a noticeable dependence on %TiO2 and the highest ionic conductivity is obtained at 5 wt% TiO2. The presence of TiO2 in the gel polymer electrolyte also allows for smaller interfacial resistance and a more stable Li−electrolyte interface upon long‐term storage and battery cycling. As a result, when assembled with the LiFePO4 and LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2O2 cathodes, the composite gel polymer electrolyte improves the full‐cell performance, such as higher Coulombic efficiency, improved cycling stability, and more stable electrode–electrolyte interface.
Doped Emitting Cesium Silver Halides as X‐Ray Scintillator with Fast Response Time, High Absorption Coefficient, and Light Yield
Authors: Yao Jia-Li , Zhang Zi-Xu , Sun Xiao-Qi , Chang Tong , Guo Jing-Fu , Huang Ke-Ke , Zeng Hai-Bo , Wang Da-Yang , Yang Wen-Sheng , Zeng Ruo-Sheng , Li Xiao-Ming , Xie Ren-Guo
Published: July 2021

Radioluminescence materials (scintillators) are widely investigated because of their potential application in many fields, such as medical imaging, security‐related techniques, and nondestructive inspection. However, the fabrication of scintillator materials with simultaneously fast response time, high absorption coefficient, and high light yield, as well as low toxicity is still a challenge. Herein, the synthesis of Cu(I)‐doped Cs2AgI3 single crystals (SCs) with a 1D crystal structure is presented. A bright blue‐green photoluminescence (PL) is observed after incorporating Cu+ into the Cs2AgI3 SCs under UV irradiation at room temperature. The PL quantum yield of the doped samples can reach up to 73% at a Cu+ concentration of 0.66%. Experimental and theoretical studies show that the blue‐green emission may originate from self‐trapped excitons, which is further verified by photophysical results from control experiments on pure Cs2AgI3 SCs. Upon X‐ray excitation, Cu‐doped SCs exhibit fast scintillation decay time (288 ns), high light yield (27 000 photons per MeV), and high absorption coefficient compared with the commercial product (CsI: Tl). These results suggest that Cu‐doped Cs2AgI3 is an ideal scintillator, which will be a promising candidate for potential application in dynamic real‐time imaging and radiation detection.
Root recovery and elemental composition in a perennial grass as affected by soaking conditions
Authors: Thivierge Marie‐Noëlle , Royer Isabelle , Halde Caroline , Chantigny Martin H. , Bélanger Gilles , Lachance Chantal , Lavergne Stéphanie
Published: July 2021

Roots of perennial grasses, with their fibrous architecture, are difficult to separate from the surrounding soil. We assessed the effect of five soaking solutions (sodium bicarbonate, sodium chloride, disodium ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid [disodium EDTA], distilled water, and sodium hexametaphosphate) and three soaking durations (15 min, 2 h, and 16 h) on root recovery and root elemental composition, with and without a mathematical correction for residual soil adhering to roots. Roots were collected by soil coring in a timothy (Phleum pratense L.) sward on a loam soil. After soaking, roots were washed, digitized, and analyzed for elemental composition. Soaking duration did not affect root mass and length, but the 16‐h duration resulted in the lowest ash concentration (136.7 vs. 146.4 g kg–1 dry matter [DM] on average across shorter durations), indicating a lower contamination by soil. The greatest root recovery was obtained with sodium bicarbonate (0.118 vs. 0.101 g DM core–1 on average across other solutions). Sodium hexametaphosphate led to the lowest root ash and element concentrations but left a P residue on the roots. Distilled water did not impair root cell integrity and led to a similar root recovery as sodium chloride, disodium EDTA, and sodium hexametaphosphate. A mathematical correction improved the estimates of (a) root mass for all soaking solutions and (b) root elemental composition for elements with higher concentrations in soils than in roots. Soaking solutions should be chosen as a function of the study objectives because of the trade‐off between root recovery and contamination by adhering soil.
Machine‐Learning‐Assisted Intelligent Imaging Flow Cytometry: A Review
Authors: Luo Shaobo , Shi Yuzhi , Chin Lip Ket , Hutchinson Paul Edward , Zhang Yi , Chierchia Giovanni , Talbot Hugues , Jiang Xudong , Bourouina Tarik , Liu Ai-Qun
Published: July 2021

Imaging flow cytometry has been widely adopted in numerous applications such as optical sensing, environmental monitoring, clinical diagnostics, and precision agriculture. The system, with the assistance of machine learning, shows unprecedented advantages in automated image analysis, thus enabling high‐throughput measurement, identification, and sorting of biological entities. Recently, with the burgeoning developments of machine learning algorithms, deep learning has taken over most of data analysis and promised tremendous performance in intelligent imaging flow cytometry. Herein, an overview of the basic knowledge of intelligent imaging flow cytometry, the evolution of machine learning and the typical applications, and how machine learning can be applied to assist intelligent imaging flow cytometry is provided. Perspectives of emerging machine learning algorithms in implementing future intelligent imaging flow cytometry are also discussed.
Comparing data‐driven and hypothesis‐driven MRI‐based predictors of cognitive impairment in individuals from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study
Authors: Casanova Ramon , Hsu Fang‐Chi , Barnard Ryan T. , Anderson Andrea M. , Talluri Rajesh , Whitlow Christopher T. , Hughes Timothy M. , Griswold Michael , Hayden Kathleen M. , Gottesman Rebecca F. , Wagenknecht Lynne E. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2021

Introduction

A data‐driven index of dementia risk based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the Alzheimer's Disease Pattern Similarity (AD‐PS) score, was estimated for participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study.

Methods

AD‐PS scores were generated for 839 cognitively non‐impaired individuals with a mean follow‐up of 4.86 years. The scores and a hypothesis‐driven volumetric measure based on several brain regions susceptible to AD were compared as predictors of incident cognitive impairment in different settings.

Results

Logistic regression analyses suggest the data‐driven AD‐PS scores to be more predictive of incident cognitive impairment than its counterpart. Both biomarkers were more predictive of incident cognitive impairment in participants who were White, female, and apolipoprotein E gene (APOE) ε4 carriers. Random forest analyses including predictors from different domains ranked the AD‐PS scores as the most relevant MRI predictor of cognitive impairment.

Conclusions

Overall, the AD‐PS scores were the stronger MRI‐derived predictors of incident cognitive impairment in cognitively non‐impaired individuals.
Risk factors for cancellation after dispatch of rapid response cars for prehospital emergency care: a single‐center, case–control study
Authors: Inoue Juri , Hirano Yohei , Fukumoto Yuichi , Kudo Tomohiro , Usami Ryo , Kondo Yutaka , Matsuda Shigeru , Okamoto Ken , Tanaka Hiroshi
Published: July 2021

Aim

The objective of this study is to identify the risk factors for cancellation after dispatch of rapid response cars (RRC) for prehospital emergency care.

Methods

We retrospectively extracted data from all RRC cases dispatched from our hospital between April 2017 and March 2019. A total of 1,440 cases were included in our study and divided into either the “cancelled” group (n = 723) or the “treated” group (n = 717), based on the occurrence of cancellation. The variables obtained from the request calls for RRC included patient characteristics, distance from the hospital to the scene, and reasons for RRC request. The variables were compared between the two groups and logistic regression analysis was carried out to identify the risk factors for RRC cancellation.

Results

Multivariable analysis showed that distance from the hospital to the scene (odds ratio [OR] 1.25; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.21–1.28), suspicion of cardiopulmonary arrest with no witness information (OR 7.61; 95% CI, 4.13–14.00), dyspnea (OR 2.22; 95% CI, 1.19–4.11), and suicide by hanging (OR 3.49; 95% CI, 1.37–8.89) were independent risk factors for cancellation.

Conclusions

In our study, a greater distance from the hospital to the scene, suspicion of cardiopulmonary arrest with no witness information, dyspnea, and suicide by hanging were identified as independent risk factors for cancellation after dispatch of RRC. Evaluating the risk factors for cancellation at individual facilities could help hospitals adjust their dispatch criteria to allocate limited medical resources more effectively.
A Color‐Shifting Near‐Infrared Fluorescent Aptamer–Fluorophore Module for Live‐Cell RNA Imaging
Authors: Zhang Jingye , Wang Lu , Jäschke Andres , Sunbul Murat
Published: July 2021

Fluorescent light‐up RNA aptamers (FLAPs) have become promising tools for visualizing RNAs in living cells. Specific binding of FLAPs to their non‐fluorescent cognate ligands results in a dramatic fluorescence increase, thereby allowing RNA imaging. Here, we present a color‐shifting aptamer‐fluorophore system, where the free dye is cyan fluorescent and the aptamer‐dye complex is near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescent. Unlike other reported FLAPs, this system enables ratiometric RNA imaging. To design the color‐shifting system, we synthesized a series of environmentally sensitive benzopyrylium‐coumarin hybrid fluorophores which exist in equilibrium between a cyan fluorescent spirocyclic form and a NIR fluorescent zwitterionic form. As an RNA tag, we evolved a 38‐nucleotide aptamer that selectively binds the zwitterionic forms with nanomolar affinity. We used this system as a light‐up RNA marker to image mRNAs in the NIR region and demonstrated its utility in ratiometric analysis of target RNAs expressed at different levels in single cells.
Efficient and recoverable novel pyranothiazol Pd (II), Cu (II) and Fe(III) catalysts in simple synthesis of polyfunctionalized pyrroles: Under mild conditions using ultrasonic irradiation
Authors: El‐Remaily Mahmoud Abd El Aleem Ali Ali , El‐Metwaly Nashwa M. , Bawazeer Tahani M. , Khalifa Mohamed E. , El‐Dabea Tarek , Abu‐Dief Ahmed M.
Published: July 2021

Three novel Pd (II), Cu (II), and Fe (III) complexes were prepared from thiazole ligand through bidentate chelating mode. Alternative spectral and analytical tools were applied to elucidate their structural and molecular formulae. This study was extended to investigate stability and stoichiometry of complexes in solution, using standard methods. In addition, the best atomic distribution within structural forms was obtained by Material Studio Package via the density functional theory (DFT) method. This computational study fed us with significant physical characteristics for differentiation. Also, crystal surface properties in the packing system were studied using the Crystal explorer program, to evaluate the extent of contact between surfaces. Computational data discriminate Pd (II)‐thiazole (HYHPd) complex by some physical features, which may be promising in the catalytic field. This complex was selected to play a catalytic function to synthesize polyfunctionalized pyrrole derivatives using ultrasonic irradiation in a one‐pot reaction. The catalyst was selected for this application based on the history of Pd (II) complexes and the properties expected theoretically. A condensation reaction for aromatic aldehyde, aromatic amine, acetylacetone, and nitromethane was carried out under mild reaction conditions by ultrasonic irradiation. All reaction conditions were optimized among that variable Lewis acid catalysts in comparison to our new complexes. HYHPd catalyst displayed superiority in overall trials with high yield, short time, and green conditions (solvent H2O/EtOH). Also, the recovery of hetero‐catalyst was succeeded and reused by the same efficiency up to five times after that the efficiency was reduced. The mechanism of action was proposed based on the ability of Pd (II) for adding extra‐bonds overzaxis and supported by theoretical aspects.
The effect of simulation‐based education before a cadaver dissection course
Authors: Yakura Tomiko , Hatayama Naoyuki , Kawahara Chikako , Ohmichi Yusuke , Ohmichi Mika , Ban Nobutaro , Hirai Shuichi , Nakano Takashi , Naito Munekazu
Published: July 2021

Although the methods for medical education continue to evolve due to the development of medicines, the cadaver dissection course still plays a fundamental role. The cadaver dissection course allows students to learn to handle instruments correctly while actively exploring three‐dimensional anatomy. However, dissection comes with the risk of accidental injury. In recent years, the number of classes offered for the cadaver dissection course has decreased while the amount of knowledge required in clinical medicine has increased. Simulation‐based education (SBE) has been proven to be an effective educational method that enhances the development of practical skills by integrating learners' knowledge and skills. This study aimed to investigate the effect of SBE as a preparatory education course when taken prior to a medical student's enrollment in the cadaver dissection course. In the present study, an SBE assuming practical cadaver dissection course was performed in the Clinical Simulation Center. The frequency of injury rates per 1000 h of cadaver dissection course was significantly less in 2017 and 2018 compared to that in 2016. Two years after the implementation of the SBE, average student self‐efficacy scores and written examination scores significantly increased, whereas self‐contentment scores were relatively unchanged. The results showed that the implementation of SBE decreased the incidence of injuries and improved students' overall self‐efficacy scores and increased acquisition of knowledge evident on written examination score. Therefore, SBE as a preparatory education course may effectively promote the combined development of dissection skills and anatomical knowledge in the subsequent fundamental cadaver dissection course.
Sagittal wedging of intervertebral discs and vertebral bodies in the cervical spine and their associations with age, sex and cervical lordosis: A large‐scale morphological study
Authors: Tao Youping , Niemeyer Frank , Galbusera Fabio , Jonas René , Samartzis Dino , Vogele Daniel , Kienle Annette , Wilke Hans‐Joachim
Published: July 2021

Many recent studies have focused on the functional and clinical importance of cervical lordosis. However, there is little accurate knowledge of the anatomical parameters that constitute cervical lordosis (i.e., the sagittal wedging angles of intervertebral discs and vertebral bodies) and their associations with age and sex. Standing lateral cervical radiographs of 1020 subjects (424 males, 596 females) with a mean age of 36.6 ± 17.0 years (range 7–95 years) were evaluated retrospectively. Cervical lordosis, the sum of intervertebral disc wedging angles from C2/C3 to C6/C7 and the sum of vertebral body wedging angles from C3 to C7 were measured. The sum of intervertebral disc wedging and the sum of vertebral body wedging were 20.6° ± 14.7° and −12.8° ± 10.3°, respectively. The sum of intervertebral disc wedging increased significantly with age and was significantly greater in males than females, whereas there was no sex‐related difference in the sum of vertebral body wedging. The sum of intervertebral disc wedging was negatively correlated with sum of vertebral body wedging. Wedging of discs contributed to C2–C7 cervical lordosis more significantly than wedging of vertebral bodies. There were moderate positive correlations between cervical lordosis and intervertebral disc wedging angles at C3/C4, C4/C5 and C5/C6; weak correlations were observed at C2/C3 and C6/C7. This study constitutes the largest currently available analysis comprehensively documenting the anatomical characteristics of sagittal wedging of intervertebral discs and vertebral bodies in the cervical spine. The findings could improve understanding of the internal architecture of cervical lordosis among clinicians.