bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An investigation on scaling failure of heat exchanger in cooling water system of natural gas purification plant
Authors: Jiang Jingjing , Huang Ganghua , Wang Yanran , Fan Rui
Published: June 2022

In this study, a natural gas purification plant adopts open circulating water system, which cannot work properly and hinder the normal production of natural gas due to the problems such as scaling and blockage in the operation of heat exchanger device was reported. Qualities of the make‐up water and recirculating cooling water were evaluated by parameters such as hardness, alkalinity, pH, and conductivity. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and optical microscope were employed to study the crystal structure, composition, and morphology of the scale deposits. The flow rate of the water in the tube bundle was calculated according to the design scale of these exchangers. The Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) was used to analyze the scale tendency of the cooling water system. The scale inhibition performance of the inhibitor was verified by static inhibition method. Results show that the scale mainly contains calcium carbonate, and the quality of circulating water is reasonably controlled with a proper range. However, there are three units sharing one cooling water system, of which the flow rate cannot be adjusted according to the actual heat load. The calculation results confirmed that the circulating water velocity in the tube bundle did not exceed 0.9 m/s. Although the scale inhibitor has a scale inhibition efficiency of more than 90% for the simulated circulating water at 80°C, the LSI analysis results showed that the high local temperature on the surface of the tube bundle caused by the low flow rate of water will increase the scaling tendency of the heat exchanger. Furthermore, the untimely injection of the inhibitor in the daily management and operation also greatly increased the risk of system scaling. This paper proves that the scaling of circulating water heat exchanger in the purification plant is mainly caused by device design and poor daily management. In order to prevent future failures, potential solutions and mitigation strategies were put forward.
The hidden dimension to political instability: Insights from ministerial durations in Papua New Guinea from 1972 to 2017
Authors: Ivarature Henry
Published: June 2022

This article introduces a dataset on ministerial tenure in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The dataset, which spans from 1972 to 2017 and covers 15 governments and 321 ministers, is used to study ministerial duration and stability. To do this, two measures of ministerial duration and two stability indicators have been developed. These measures show that ministerial instability is high in PNG but it has not become worse over time. They also show, however, that instability has varied considerably between governments. Drawing on PNGʼs political history, this article provides a discussion of this variation by examining the circumstances of particular governments.
Towards Solid‐State Magnesium Batteries: Ligand‐Assisted Superionic Conductivity
Authors: Skov Lasse N. , Grinderslev Jakob B. , Rosenkranz Asger , Lee Young‐Su , Jensen Torben R.
Published: June 2022

Solid‐state inorganic magnesium batteries are considered as potential high energy storage devices of the future. Here we present a series of magnesium borohydride tetrahydrofuran (THF) composites, Mg(BH4)2 ⋅ xTHF(−MgO), 0≤x≤3, as solid‐state electrolytes for magnesium batteries. Three new monoclinic compounds were identified, Mg(BH4)2 ⋅ 2/3THF (Cc), α‐Mg(BH4)2 ⋅ 2THF (P21/c) and β‐Mg(BH4)2 ⋅ 2THF (C2), and the detailed structures of α‐ and β‐Mg(BH4)2 ⋅ 2THF are presented. The magnesium ionic conductivity of composites formed by these compounds were several orders of magnitude higher than that of the distinct compounds, x=0, 2/3, 2, and 3. The nanocomposite stabilized by MgO nanoparticles (∼50 nm), Mg(BH4)2 ⋅ 1.5THF−MgO(75 wt%), displayed the highest Mg2+ conductivity, σ(Mg2+)∼10−4 S cm−1 at 70 °C, a high ionic transport number of tion=0.99, and cyclic voltammetry revealed an oxidative stability of ∼1.2 V vs. Mg/Mg2+. The electrolyte was stable towards magnesium electrodes, which allowed for stable Mg plating/stripping for at least 100 cycles at 55 °C with a current density of 0.1 mA cm−2. Finally, a proof‐of‐concept rechargeable solid‐state magnesium battery was assembled with a magnesium metal anode and a TiS2 cathode. A maximum discharge capacity of 94.2 mAh g−1 was displayed, which corresponds to y=0.2 in MgyTiS2.
How can banks and finance companies incorporate value chain factors in their risk management strategy? The case of agro‐food firms
Authors: Wasan Pratibha , Kumar Ashwani , Luthra Sunil
Published: June 2022

A value chain framework for guiding the financial firms in their credit decisions is urgent, as the current COVID‐19 pandemic has highlighted, but missing in the extant literature, particularly for those that lend to industries sensitive to value and supply chain bottlenecks. This study creates knowledge in value chain finance, a big untapped and un‐researched market. It constructs, confirms, and validates a value chain framework for assessing risks in lending to Agro and Food Processing firms in which value chain risks are major business concerns globally. To pursue the objectives of the study, we use a novel methodology that integrates the Modified Delphi technique, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and discriminant analysis. Based on testing and analysis of primary data, including loan data, a framework comprising six factors is proposed for use in conjunction with existing risk assessment models of finance companies to improve the quality of their credit decisions, contributing to their performance sustainability.
Metabolic dysfunction and obesity‐related cancer: Results from the cross‐sectional National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Winn Maci , Karra Prasoona , Haaland Benjamin , Doherty Jennifer A. , Summers Scott A. , Litchman Michelle L. , Gunter Marc J. , Playdon Mary C. , Hardikar Sheetal
Published: June 2022

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a group of risk factors that define metabolic dysfunction in adults, is strongly associated with obesity and is an emerging risk factor for cancer. However, the association of MetS and degree of metabolic dysfunction with obesity‐related cancer is unknown.

Methods

Using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data from 1999 to 2018, we identified 528 obesity‐related cancer cases and 18,972 cancer‐free participants. MetS was defined as the presence of or treatment for ≥3 of hyperglycemia, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL–cholesterol, and abdominal obesity. A metabolic syndrome score (MSS) was computed as the total number of abnormal MetS parameters to determine the severity of metabolic dysfunction. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using multivariable logistic regression models, adjusting for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors.

Results

About 45.7% of obesity‐related cancer cases were classified as having MetS compared with only 33.0% of cancer‐free participants. Overall, MetS and MSS were not associated with obesity‐related cancer. However, MSS was associated with higher obesity‐related cancer risk among participants under 50 years of age (OR [95% CI] = 1.28 [1.08–1.52]). When evaluating MSS categorically, compared with healthy participants with no abnormal MetS parameters (MSS = 0), participants with one or two abnormal parameters had a statistically significant higher risk of obesity‐related cancer (OR [95% CI] = 1.73 [1.06–2.83]).

Conclusions

Metabolic dysfunction is associated with a higher risk of obesity‐related cancer, particularly in young adults under 50 years of age, and among participants with one or two abnormal metabolic parameters. A more accurate indicator of metabolic dysfunction, beyond metabolic syndrome, is needed to better assist in stratifying individuals for obesity‐related cancer risk.
Receiving teletherapy in Ireland: The experiences of service users in the public mental health system
Authors: Maher Michael , Reilly Katie , Smith Elaine , Coyne Elaine , Murphy Síle , Wilson Charlotte
Published: June 2022

Objective

The present study explored the experiences of service users of Adult Mental Health and Primary Care services in Ireland in receiving teletherapy during the COVID‐19 pandemic to provide an illustration of these experiences which may inform future applications of teletherapy.

Method

Semi‐structured telephone interviews about participants' experiences with teletherapy were conducted, the transcripts of which were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Six themes were generated: Early Apprehensions, Adaptations Improving Experiences, The Therapeutic Space, Seeing and Being Seen, Technical Difficulties: The Loss of “The Moment,” and The Security of a Pre‐Existing Relationship.

Conclusion

Generated themes highlight both the range of experiences that clients can have during teletherapy, and some of the most significant factors which influence these experiences. The quality and effectiveness of teletherapy are often susceptible to factors outside of therapists' and clients' control. In most cases, it may be best considered as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, traditional in‐person services.
Antimicrobial Activity of Volatile Oils from Brazilian Stingless BeesMelipona quadrifasciata quadrifasciataandTetragonisca angustulaPropolis
Authors: Valcanaia Camila Panini , Masote Júlia Beatriz Berkenbrock , Sommer Heloísa Fontana , Schiquet Scarlet , Padilha Bruna , Krepsky Larissa , Paganelli Camila Jeriane , Borges Pâmela Pacassa , Danielli Letícia Jacobi , Apel Miriam Anders , Soares Krissie Daian , Althoff Sérgio , Alberton Michele Debiase , Botelho Tatiani Karini Rensi , Guedes Alessandro , Mendes de Cordova Caio Maurício
Published: June 2022

Few studies were performed on the volatile components’ properties of propolis from native Brazilian stingless bees. This work sought to extract, chemically characterize, and evaluate of the antimicrobial properties of volatile oils from propolis of the stingless beesMelipona quadrifasciata quadrifasciata(MQ) andTetragonisca angustula(TA). The volatile oils from the pulverized propolis samples were obtained in a Clevenger apparatus and characterized by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and to flame ionization detector (GC‐FID). All samples showed promising activity againstMycoplasma pneumoniae, with MICs from 103 to 224 μg mL−1, nonetheless, they were less active against cell walled bacteria. Activity againstCandidaspecies was moderate, but one MQ sample showed a MIC value of 103 μg mL−1againstC. tropicallis. Oils’ fractionation showed no improvement in antibacterial activity. The promising antibacterial effect against this microorganism is likely related to the synergism between the components of the volatile oils.
Antimicrobial Properties of Lauric Acid and Monolaurin in Virgin Coconut Oil: A Review
Authors: Nitbani Febri Odel , Tjitda Putra Jiwamurwa Pama , Nitti Fidelis , Jumina J. , Detha Annytha Ina Rohi
Published: June 2022

Virgin coconut oil is obtained by wet processing of coconut milk using fermentation, centrifugation, enzymatic extraction, and the microwave heating method. Presently, VCO has several positive effects and benefits to human health, hence, it is regularly consumed and widely known as a unique functional food. VCO contains lauric acid (45 to 52 %). By lipase in the digestive system, VCO can undergo a breakdown into lauric acid, 1‐monolaurin, and 2‐monolaurin. These components have both hydrophilic and lipophilic groups and are also recognized as excellent antimicrobial lipids. Furthermore, lauric acid and monolaurin can be used as antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral with broad‐spectrum inhibition. Lauric acid and monolaurin have a strong ability to destroy gram‐positive bacteria, especially S. aureus, fungi such as C. Albicans, and viruses including vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), and visna virus (VV). Lauric acid and monolaurin interact with certain functional groups located in the cell membrane and can cause damage to the cell. In general, the potential of VCO as healthy food is contributed by lauric acid and monolaurin which are antimicrobial agents.
RING finger protein 128 (RNF128) regulates malignant biological behaviors of colorectal cancer cells via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Zhuang Yan , Liu Peng‐fei , Zhan Yang , Kong Da‐lu , Tian Fei , Zhao Peng
Published: June 2022

This study was designed and conducted to clarify the impact of RNF128 expression on malignant biological behaviors of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells and the underlying mechanism. The expression of RNF128 in CRC tissues was analyzed using mRNA sequencing data of TCGA database and was validated by Western blot assay. The experimental studies on biological functions of RNF128 in vitro were conducted to assess its impact on the proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis of CRC cells. Furthermore, tumor xenograft models in nude mice were established to investigate the relationship between RNF128 expression and tumor growth in vivo. The expression levels of both RNF128 mRNA and protein were significantly increased in CRC tissues (p < .001). The knockdown of RNF128 markedly suppressed the malignant phenotype of HCT116 and SW480 cells in vitro, including cell growth, antiapoptosis, migration, and invasion (p < .001). On the other hand, knockdown of RNF128 exerted a remarkable effect on the growth inhibition of tumor xenografts in vivo (p < .001). Further investigation revealed that RNF128 knockdown lead to a significant decrease in the expression of p‐AKT and p‐PI3K protein. More importantly, the proliferative, antiapoptotic, metastatic abilities of RNF128‐knockdown cells were markedly increased by 740 Y‐P treatment (p < .001). These findings further suggested that PI3K/AKT signaling pathway played a key role in RNF128‐mediated aggressive phenotype of CRC cells. RNF128 functions as a tumor promoter in the pathogenesis of CRC via regulating PI3K/AKT pathway, and it could be a valuable target for CRC treatment.
Automation of intracoronary continuous thermodilution for absolute coronary flow and microvascular resistance measurements
Authors: Candreva Alessandro , Gallinoro Emanuele , Fernandez Peregrina Estefania , Sonck Jeroen , Keulards Danielle C. J. , van‘t Veer Marcel , Mizukami Takuya , Pijls Nico H. J. , Collet Carlos , De Bruyne Bernard
Published: June 2022

Aim

Microvascular resistance reserve (MRR) as derived from continuous intracoronary thermodilution specifically quantifies microvasculature function. As originally described, the technique necessitates reinstrumentation of the artery and manual reprogramming of the infusion pump when performing resting and hyperemic measurements. To simplify and to render this procedure operator‐independent, we developed a fully automated method. The aim of the present study is to validate the automated procedure against the originally described one.

Methods and Results

For the automated procedure, an infusion pump was preprogrammed to allow paired resting‐hyperemic thermodilution assessment without interruption. To validate the accuracy of this new approach, 20 automated measurements were compared to those obtained in the same vessels with conventional paired resting‐hyperemic thermodilution measurements (i.e., with a sensor pullback at each infusion rate and manual reprogramming of the infusion pump). 

A close correlation between the conventional and the automated measuring technique was found for resting flow (Qrest: r = 0.89, mean bias = 2.52; SD = 15.47), hyperemic flow (Qhyper: r = 0.88, mean bias = −2.65; SD = 27.96), resting microvascular resistance (Rμ‐rest: r = 0.90, mean bias = 52.14; SD = 228.29), hyperemic microvascular resistance Rμ‐hyper: r = 0.92, mean bias = 12.95; SD = 57.80), and MRR (MRR: r = 0.89, mean bias = 0.04, SD = 0.59). 

Procedural time was significantly shorter with the automated method (5′25″ ± 1′23″ vs. 4′36″ ± 0′33″, p = 0.013).

Conclusion

Continuous intracoronary thermodilution‐derived measurements of absolute flow, absolute resistance, and MRR can be fully automated. This further shortens and simplifies the procedure when performing paired resting‐hyperemic measurements.
Limitations of the L3 skeletal muscle index and the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 consensus diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia evaluation in a case of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Matsunaga Takuya , Deto Tomoko , Yamada Tomoe , Yamamoto Takashi , Yamakawa Kimika , Kamiyama Yuta , Morimoto Masako , Seki Hitoshi , Haraguchi Fumihiko , Hisatomi Ikuko , Nakanishi Katsuya , Takahashi Masahiro
Published: June 2022

Sarcopenia is an adverse prognostic factor for diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. A case of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma whose diagnosis, severity, and therapeutic effect of sarcopenia were difficult to determine owing to lymphoma cell infiltration into the psoas major and femoral bone marrow is reported. At presentation, the cross‐sectional area of left psoas major at L3 was enlarged owing to lymphoma cell infiltration; thus, sarcopenia evaluation was impossible by L3 skeletal muscle index. The patient was bedridden; thus, sarcopenia evaluation was impossible by the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 consensus diagnostic criteria at presentation. At the terminal stage, she could not walk due to bilateral anterior thigh pain caused by lymphoma infiltration into femoral marrow; thus, sarcopenia evaluation was impossible by the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 consensus diagnostic criteria. Although the L3 skeletal muscle index and the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 consensus diagnostic criteria are representative sarcopenia evaluation systems, they cannot be used to evaluate sarcopenia in some diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma patients.
Extraocular sebaceous carcinoma in a renal transplant patient: A case report
Authors: Frioui Refka , Rabhi Faten , Gargouri Faten , Jaber Kahena , Dhaoui Mohamed Raouf
Published: June 2022

The high risk of skin cancer after organ transplantation is a major clinical challenge. We describe a case of a patient presenting with sebaceous carcinoma (SC) after a kidney transplant. Although it is exceedingly rare, SC should always be considered in the presence of any skin lesion occurring after a transplant.
Atmosphere‐free activation methodology for holey graphene/cellulose nanofiber‐based film electrode with highly efficient capacitance performance
Authors: Wu Heng , Yuan Wenyu , Yuan Xiaowen , Cheng Laifei
Published: June 2022

An efficient chamber‐induced activation method was applied for the preparation of holey graphene/cellulose nanofiber‐based film with high specific surface area (SSA) and multiple channels through the graphene nanosheets. With the cellulose nanofiber (CNF) simultaneously serving as “dispersing agent,” “spacer,” and “activating agent,” the graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets are perforated by the pyrolysis gas from CNF in the confined space inside the hybrid films, uniformly dispersed, and sandwiched between CNF networks with less agglomeration and restacking. Additionally, we have proved that H2O and H2 are primarily responsible for the activation and etching of GO/CNF film. As the CNF content increases, the mesoporosity of the activated reduced GO/CNF (A‐RGO/CNF) film increases, and the graphene nanosheets show more nanopore perforations. Benefitting from the high SSA, high density, moderate mesoporosity, and abundant channels for ion diffusion through the graphene nanosheets, the A‐RGO/CNF film exhibits the highest specific capacitance of 323 (236) F g−1 (F cm−3) at 1 A g−1. For the A‐RGO5/CNF5 film containing half CNF and half GO, an excellent comprehensive electrochemical performance including superior rate performance (208 (160) F g−1 (F cm−3) at 60 A g−1) is exhibited. Moreover, the A‐RGO5/CNF5 electrode in an all‐solid‐state flexible symmetric supercapacitor delivers a high specific capacitance of 250 (193) F g−1 (F cm−3) at 1 A g−1. This study provides a novel idea for the preparation of holey graphene‐based film for supercapacitor electrodes. The strategy of simultaneously employing CNF as “dispersing agent,” “spacer,” and “activating agent” also offers a new vision for the assembly of homogeneous nanohybrid material and the utilization of pyrolysis gas.
Single‐Step N‐Terminal Modification of Proteins via a Bio‐Inspired Copper(II)‐Mediated Aldol Reaction
Authors: Hanaya Kengo , Yamoto Kaho , Taguchi Kazuaki , Matsumoto Kazuaki , Higashibayashi Shuhei , Sugai Takeshi
Published: June 2022

The chemical modification of proteins is an effective technique for manipulating the properties and functions of proteins, and for creating protein‐based materials. The N‐terminus is a promising target for single‐site modification that provides modified proteins with uniform structures and properties. In this paper, a copper(II)‐mediated aldol reaction with 2‐pyridinecarboxaldehyde (2‐PC) derivatives is proposed as an operationally simple method to selectively modify the N‐terminus of peptides and proteins at room temperature and physiological pH. The copper(II) ion activates the N‐terminal amino acids by complexation with an imine of the N‐terminal amino acid and 2‐PCs, realizing the selective formation of the nucleophilic intermediate at the N‐terminus. This results in a stable carbon‐carbon bond between the 2‐PCs and the α‐carbon of various N‐terminal amino acids. The reaction is applied to four different proteins, including biopharmaceuticals such as filgrastim and trastuzumab. The modified trastuzumab retains the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 recognition activity.
Machine learning‐based gene alteration prediction model for primary lung cancer using cytologic images
Authors: Ishii Shuhei , Takamatsu Manabu , Ninomiya Hironori , Inamura Kentaro , Horai Takeshi , Iyoda Akira , Honma Naoko , Hoshi Rira , Sugiyama Yuko , Yanagitani Noriko , Mun Mingyon , Abe Hitoshi , Mikami Tetuo , Takeuchi Kengo
Published: June 2022

Background: Understanding the gene alteration status of primary lung cancers is important for determining treatment strategies, but gene testing is both time‐consuming and costly, limiting its application in clinical practice. Here, potential therapeutic targets were selected by predicting gene alterations in cytologic specimens before conventional gene testing.

Methods: This was a retrospective study to develop a cytologic image–based gene alteration prediction model for primary lung cancer. Photomicroscopic images of cytology samples were collected and image patches were generated for analyses. Cancer‐positive (n = 106) and cancer‐negative (n = 32) samples were used to develop a neural network model for selecting cancer‐positive images. Cancer‐positive cases were randomly assigned to training (n = 77) and validation (n = 26) data sets. Another neural network model was developed to classify cancer images of the training data set into 4 groups: anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)‐fusion, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), or Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homologue (KRAS) mutated groups, and other (None group), and images of the validation data set were classified. A decision algorithm to predict gene alteration for cases with 3 probability ranks was developed.

Results: The accuracy and precision for selecting cancer‐positive patches were 0.945 and 0.991, respectively. Predictive accuracy for the EGFR and KRAS groups in the validation data set was ~0.95, whereas that for the ALK and None groups was ~0.75 and ~ 0.80, respectively. Gene status was correctly predicted in the probability rank A cases. The model extracted characteristic conventional cytologic findings in images and a novel specific feature was discovered for the EGFR group.

Conclusions: A gene alteration prediction model for lung cancers by machine learning based on cytologic images was successfully developed.
The influence of packaging color on taste expectations and perceptions
Authors: Wang Ching‐Yi , Chang Fei‐Ya
Published: June 2022

The color of food packaging has an important influence on consumers' purchasing decisions. This study takes popcorn packaging as an example to explore the impact of packaging color on consumers' taste perception and preference evaluation. Sixty participants were invited to participate in the experiment. Four experimental package design colors (red, blue, yellow, and white) and three popcorn tastes (sweet, salty, and tasteless) were used to evaluate whether the pretasting and posttasting evaluations were affected by package color and product taste. The results of this study indicated that (1) there is a contrast between expected psychological and actual perceptions and that (2) yellow and red packaging are suitable for a sweet product, blue is suitable for a salty product, and white is suitable for a tasteless product. The research results can help designers and manufacturers understand the effects of packaging color and achieve the design conditions required by consumers.
A negotiation framework for the cloud using rough set theory‐based preference prediction
Authors: Malouche Hela , Halima Youssef Ben , Ghezala Henda Ben
Published: June 2022

In recent years, cloud computing has become a priority for organizations that seek to facilitate the management of their increasingly complex information systems (IS) that includes different components: data, services, business processes and hardware. With the large number of cloud providers, the selection of cloud services for each IS component remains a challenge because each one has its own requirements in terms of quality of service which may be different from each other. Cloud providers preferences are generally different from those of organizations, hence the need for a negotiation process. In this article, we propose a framework on which the negotiations between organizations and cloud providers will be based. In this framework, we use rough set theory to predict provider preferences. This method plays an important role in improving the results of negotiations and allows to speed up this process since the preferences of the providers will be known. Additionally, we propose an improvement to an existing negotiation strategy in order to further speed up negotiation process and increase organization utility. Experiments show the effectiveness of our approach in terms of utility, time and success rate.
The relationship between responsibility attribution and session outcomes: Two‐dimension attribution and two‐person perspective
Authors: Lai Lizu , Sun Qiwu , Zhu Wenzhen , Ren Zhihong
Published: June 2022

Objective

Blame attribution (who is to blame for problem causes) and solution attribution (who is to control problem solving) are two critical dimensions of responsibility attribution in psychotherapy. The present study aimed to (1) investigate the impacts of blame attribution and solution attribution on session outcomes from both client and therapist perspectives and (2) clarify the relationship between the therapist–client congruence of responsibility attribution and session outcomes.

Method

A total of 69 clients were recruited at a university counselling centre. Client‐rated responsibility attribution (to what extent they were responsible for the causes and solution of their current concerns), therapist‐rated responsibility attribution (to what extent they thought their clients should be responsible for the causes and solution of clients' current concerns), client‐rated session quality and symptom level for each session were collected across 387 sessions. Multilevel regression was used to explore the relationship between responsibility attribution and session outcomes. Truth and bias model and response surface analysis were utilized to analyse the within‐client and between‐client client–therapist congruence effects.

Results

The main results included that (1) the clients with higher solution responsibility had more symptom improvement and higher evaluation of session quality (between‐client level). A client's perceived solution responsibility predicted better session quality and fewer next session symptom levels (within‐client level). (2) If a therapist attributed more solution responsibility to his/her client, the session quality was higher (within‐client level). (3) Neither clients' nor therapists' perspectives on blame attribution directly affected session outcomes. But the higher the client's blame for his/her problem causes, the stronger the association between solution responsibility and symptom reduction (within‐client level). (4) Higher within‐client client–therapist congruence on blame responsibility led to better session outcomes.

Conclusion

The clients' solution responsibility and client–therapist congruence on blame for problem causes contribute to session outcomes in psychotherapy.
Agreement of in vitro orthodontic measurements on dental plaster casts and digital models using Maestro 3D ortho studio software
Authors: Rafiei Elaheh , Haerian Alireza , Fadaei Tehrani Pooya , Shokrollahi Mohammad
Published: June 2022

Objective

Diagnostic casts are one of the standard components of orthodontic records. But they have several drawbacks such as the need for physical space for storage and the risk of breaking due to their brittle composition. Today, the digitalization of orthodontic models is a progress in orthodontics. The purpose of this study was to compare and evaluate common orthodontic linear measurements on plaster casts and digital 3D models using Maestro 3D ortho studio® scanner and software (AGE Solutions®, Pontedera, Italy).

Materials and Methods

Study casts of 30 orthodontic patients were selected. Tooth width, space analysis, Bolton analysis, overjet, overbite, and linear measurements of dental arch dimensions were performed by two examiners on plaster casts and digital models.

Statistical Analysis

Intra‐ and interexaminer agreements were evaluated in both manual and digital methods and pairedt test was used for evaluating the agreement between the manual and digital measurement. The significance level was set at 0.05.

Results

The intraexaminer agreement was excellent (ICC > 0.75) for most variables in both manual and digital methods. The correlation between the two examiners was significant (p < .05) for most manual and digital measurements. The differences between the manual and digital measurements, although maybe statistically significant, were not clinically significant for most variables.

Conclusion

The use of “Maestro 3D” (AGE Solutions, Pontedera, Italy) scanner and software was acceptable for orthodontic diagnostic measurements instead of study casts.
Evaluation of cannabinoid receptors type 1–2 in periodontitis patients
Authors: Ataei Atefe , Rahim Rezaee S. A. , Moeintaghavi Amir , Ghanbari Habibollah , Azizi Majid
Published: June 2022

Background

As effective immune modulators, Endocannabinoids may suppress the inflammatory responses in periodontitis. This study assessed the expression of cannabinoid receptors in gingiva and the impact on periodontitis.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study on 20 patients with more than stage II and Grade A periodontitis and a control group consisting of 19 healthy individuals was performed. The gingival biopsies were assessed for the expression of CB1 and CB2 using the quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, TaqMan method.

Results

The study sample consisted of 39 subjects, 31 females (79.5%) and 8 males (20.5%), including 20 periodontitis subjects (80% female and 20% male), and control groups (78.9% female and 21.1% male). The mean ages of cases and controls were 33.3 ± 4.7 and 35.7 ± 5.1 years, respectively. The gene expression of CB2 in periodontitis was 27.62 ± 7.96 and in healthy subjects was 78.15 ± 23.07. The CB2 was significantly lower than the control group (p = .008). In comparison, the gene expression index of CB1 in the periodontal group (9.42 ± 3.03) was higher than the control group (6.62 ± 1.13) but did not meet a significant value (p = .671).

Conclusion

The lower expression of CB2 receptors in the periodontitis group may be due to the reduced protective effect of anti‐inflammatory agents. These elements include cannabinoids and the imbalance leading to the predominance of pro‐inflammatory effects. Therefore, the local effects of cannabinoids as an immunomodulator could be useful for oral inflammatory diseases such as periodontitis.
An update and review of narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy for vitiligo
Authors: Wang Eugene , Rodrigues Michelle
Published: June 2022

Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition that results in depigmentation. It affects up to 2% of the population worldwide. Phototherapy is one of the most commonly used treatment methods for vitiligo. In the last few decades, there has been an increasing popularity of narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy (NB‐UVB) over other forms of phototherapy to treat vitiligo. This paper reviews efficacy and safety of NB‐UVB treatment in vitiligo, including combination therapy with topical calcineurin inhibitors, corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, antioxidants, and fractional CO2 laser. Advantages and limitations of home‐based phototherapy as an emerging alternative to conventional hospital‐based phototherapy will also be explored.
Maternal antibiotics disrupt microbiome, behavior, and temperature regulation in unexposed infant mice
Authors: Harshaw Christopher , Kojima Sayuri , Wellman Cara L. , Demas Gregory E. , Morrow Ardythe L. , Taft Diana Hazard , Kenkel William M. , Leffel Joseph K. , Alberts Jeffrey R.
Published: June 2022

Maternal antibiotic (ABx) exposure can significantly perturb the transfer of microbiota from mother to offspring, resulting in dysbiosis of potential relevance to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Studies in rodent models have found long‐term neurobehavioral effects in offspring of ABx‐treated dams, but ASD‐relevant behavior during the early preweaning period has thus far been neglected. Here, we exposed C57BL/6J mouse dams to ABx (5 mg/ml neomycin, 1.25 μg/ml pimaricin, .075% v/v acetic acid) dissolved in drinking water from gestational day 12 through offspring postnatal day 14. A number of ASD‐relevant behaviors were assayed in offspring, including ultrasonic vocalization (USV) production during maternal separation, group huddling in response to cold challenge, and olfactory‐guided home orientation. In addition, we obtained measures of thermoregulatory competence in pups during and following behavioral testing. We found a number of behavioral differences in offspring of ABx‐treated dams (e.g., modulation of USVs by pup weight, activity while huddling) and provide evidence that some of these behavioral effects can be related to thermoregulatory deficiencies, particularly at younger ages. Our results suggest not only that ABx can disrupt microbiomes, thermoregulation, and behavior, but that metabolic effects may confound the interpretation of behavioral differences observed after early‐life ABx exposure.
Early‐life conditions impact juvenile telomere length, but do not predict later life‐history strategies or fitness in a wild vertebrate
Authors: van de Crommenacker Janske , Hammers Martijn , Dugdale Hannah L. , Burke Terry A. , Komdeur Jan , Richardson David S.
Published: June 2022

Environmental conditions experienced during early life may have long‐lasting effects on later‐life phenotypes and fitness. Individuals experiencing poor early‐life conditions may suffer subsequent fitness constraints. Alternatively, individuals may use a strategic “Predictive Adaptive Response” (PAR), whereby they respond—in terms of physiology or life‐history strategy—to the conditions experienced in early life to maximize later‐life fitness. Particularly, the Future Lifespan Expectation (FLE) PAR hypothesis predicts that when poor early‐life conditions negatively impact an individual's physiological state, it will accelerate its reproductive schedule to maximize fitness during its shorter predicted life span. We aimed to measure the impact of early‐life conditions and resulting fitness across individual lifetimes to test predictions of the FLE hypothesis in a wild, long‐lived model species. Using a long‐term individual‐based dataset, we investigated how early‐life conditions are linked with subsequent fitness in an isolated population of the Seychelles warbler Acrocephalus sechellensis. How individuals experience early‐life environmental conditions may vary greatly, so we also tested whether telomere length—shorter telomers are a biomarker of an individual's exposure to stress—can provide an effective measure of the individual‐specific impact of early‐life conditions. Specifically, under the FLE hypothesis, we would expect shorter telomeres to be associated with accelerated reproduction. Contrary to expectations, shorter juvenile telomere length was not associated with poor early‐life conditions, but instead with better conditions, probably as a result of faster juvenile growth. Furthermore, neither juvenile telomere length, nor other measures of early‐life conditions, were associated with age of first reproduction or the number of offspring produced during early life in either sex. We found no support for the FLE hypothesis. However, for males, poor early‐life body condition was associated with lower first‐year survival and reduced longevity, indicating that poor early‐life conditions pose subsequent fitness constraints. Our results also showed that using juvenile telomere length as a measure of early‐life conditions requires caution, as it is likely to not only reflect environmental stress but also other processes such as growth.
History's legacy: Why future progress in ecology demands a view of the past
Authors: Estes James A. , Vermeij Geerat J.
Published: June 2022

History has profoundly affected the composition, distribution, and abundances of species in contemporary ecosystems. A full understanding of how ecosystems work and change must therefore take history into account. We offer four well‐studied examples illustrating how a knowledge of history has strengthened interpretations of modern systems: the development of molluscan antipredatory defenses in relation to shell‐breaking predators; the North Pacific kelp ecosystem with sea otters, smaller predators, sea urchins, and large herbivores; estuarine ecosystems affected by the decline in oysters and other suspension feeders; and the legacy of extinct large herbivores and frugivores in tropical American forests. Many current ecological problems would greatly benefit from a historical perspective. We highlight four of these: soil depletion and tree stunting in forests related to the disappearance of large consumers; the spread of anoxic dead zones in the ocean, which we argue could be mitigated by restoring predator and suspension‐feeding guilds; ocean acidification, which would be alleviated by more nutrient recycling by consumers in the aerobic ecosystem; and the relation between species diversity and keystone predators, a foundational concept that is complicated by simplified trophic relationships in modern ecosystems.
Association of ambient temperature and acute heart failure with preserved and reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Jimba Takahiro , Kohsaka Shun , Yamasaki Masao , Otsuka Toshiaki , Harada Kazumasa , Shiraishi Yasuyuki , Koba Shinji , Takei Makoto , Kohno Takashi , Matsushita Kenichi , Miyazaki Tetsuro , Kodera Satoshi , Tsukamoto Shigeto , Iida Kiyoshi , Shindo Akito , Kitano Daisuke , Yamamoto Takeshi , Nagao Ken , Takayama Morimasa ,   Tokyo CCU Network Scientific Committee
Published: June 2022

Aims

Evidence on the association between ambient temperature and the onset of acute heart failure (AHF) is scarce and mixed. We sought to investigate the incidence of AHF admissions based on ambient temperature change, with particular interest in detecting the difference between AHF with preserved (HFpEF), mildly reduced (HFmrEF), and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods and results

Individualized AHF admission data from January 2015 to December 2016 were obtained from a multicentre registry (Tokyo CCU Network Database). The primary event was the daily number of admissions. A linear regression model, using the lowest ambient temperature as the explanatory variable, was selected for the best‐estimate model. We also applied the cubic spline model using five knots according to the percentiles of the distribution of the lowest ambient temperature. We divided the entire population into HFpEF + HFmrEF and HFrEF for comparison. In addition, the in‐hospital treatment and mortality rates were obtained according to the interquartile ranges (IQRs) of the lowest ambient temperature (IQR1 <5.5°C; IQR25.5–13.3°C; IQR3 13.3–19.7°C; and IQR4 >19.7°C). The number of admissions for HFpEF, HFmrEF and HFrEF were 2736 (36%), 1539 (20%), and 3354 (44%), respectively. The lowest ambient temperature on the admission day was inversely correlated with the admission frequency for both HFpEF + HFmrEF and HFrEF patients, with a stronger correlation in patients with HFpEF + HFmrEF (R2 = 0.25 vs. 0.05, P < 0.001). In the sensitivity analysis, the decrease in the ambient temperature was associated with the greatest incremental increases in HFpEF, followed by HFmrEF and HFrEF patients (3.5% vs. 2.8% vs. 1.5% per −1°C, P < 0.001), with marked increase in admissions of hypertensive patients (systolic blood pressure >140 mmHg vs. 140–100 mmHg vs. <100 mmHg, 3.0% vs. 2.0% vs. 0.8% per −1°C, P for interaction <0.001). A mediator analysis indicated the presence of the mediator effect of systolic blood pressure. The in‐hospital mortality rate (7.5%) did not significantly change according to ambient temperature (P = 0.62).

Conclusions

Lower ambient temperature was associated with higher frequency of AHF admissions, and the effect was more pronounced in HFpEF and HFmrEF patients than in those with HFrEF.
Synthesis of Pyrazoles by 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition under Aqueous Micellar Catalysis
Authors: Vinciarelli Giorgia , Barreca Giuseppe , Coppola Marianna , Ronzoni Silvano , Taddei Maurizio
Published: June 2022

Ethyl diazoacetate (EDA), which is easily prepared from ethyl glycinate and NaNO2, reacts in situ with alkynes in a water micelle environment without organic solvent to form pyrazoles. The reaction is pH dependent, as in the presence of protic catalysis (H2SO4 4 %, pH 3.5) a mixture of 3,5‐ and 4,5‐disubstituted pyrazoles was obtained, while, at pH 5.5, only the 3,5‐disubstituted isomer was obtained. The presence of the surfactant TPGS‐750‐M was crucial to secure clean crude reaction mixtures and high yields of the products. The same protocol was successfully applied to the synthesis of substituted pyrazolines.
Comprehensive evaluation of throughfall erosion in the banana plantation
Authors: Ji Shuoyang , Omar Shida Irwana , Zhang Shuaibing , Wang Tianfang , Chen Chunfeng , Zhang Wanjun
Published: June 2022

Banana is an important cash crop in tropical and subtropical areas; however, the development of banana farming has caused thorny ecological problems, such as water and soil loss. There are few studies on the runoff response to rainfall in banana land to date. In this study, several evaluation indexes, rainfall redistribution, throughfall erosivity, splash kinetic energy, soil splash loss and runoff, respectively, were used to clarify the mechanism of soil erosion in banana land. Results showed that the atmospheric rainfall was significantly redistributed by the banana canopy, with about 81.2% throughfall, 8.3% stemflow and the rest canopy interception. Although the throughfall erosivity evaluated by the model was slightly lower than that of open rainfall, the throughfall kinetic energy and the soil particle splash loss reached 1.5 times and 5 times higher than that of open rainfall, respectively. Consequently, throughfall has an obvious splash erosion effect on the surface soil. In addition, influenced by throughfall and stemflow, surface runoff during the rainy season (May–September) accounts for the annual 91.7%, July and August in particular having the highest incidence of soil erosion in banana land. The above results suggest that the convergence effect of the banana canopy on rainwater is the main inducement for the increase in throughfall volume and surface runoff volume. Therefore, it is necessary to implement soil and water conservation measures on banana fields during the rainy season, such as planting low vegetation under the banana canopy to mitigate splash effects.
Comparison of Substance-Based and Whole-Effluent Toxicity of Produced Water Discharges from Norwegian Offshore Oil and Gas Installations
Authors: de Vries Pepijn , Jak Robbert G. , Frost Tone K.
Published: June 2022

When assessing the environmental risks of offshore produced water discharges, it is key to properly assess the toxicity of this complex mixture. Toxicity can be assessed either through the application of whole-effluent toxicity (WET) testing or based on its substance-based chemical composition or both. In the present study, the toxicity assessed based on WET and substance-based was compared for 25 offshore produced water effluents collected for the Norwegian implementation of the Oslo–Paris convention risk-based assessment program. The objectives were, firstly, to examine the concurrence between toxicity estimates derived from these two lines of evidence; and, secondly, to evaluate whether toxicity of produced water discharges predicted from substance-based data is adequately addressed in comparison with ground truth reflected by WET. For both approaches, 50% hazardous concentrations (HC50s) were calculated. For at least 80% of the effluents the HC50s for the two approaches differed by less than a factor of 5. Differences found between the two approaches can be attributed to the uncertainty in the estimation of the concentration of production chemicals that strongly influences the substance-based estimated toxicity. By evaluating effluents on a case-by-case basis, additional causes were hypothesized. Risk management will particularly benefit from the strength of risk endpoints from both approaches by monitoring them periodically in conjunction over time. This way (in)consistencies in trends of both indicators can be evaluated and addressed. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:2285–2304. © 2022 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Individual mobility pattern in Malaysia during COVID‐19 Recovery Movement Control Order partial lockdown
Authors: Ujang Uznir , Azri Suhaibah
Published: June 2022

Malaysia Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) aims to bring the business, education, tourism and other industry sectors back into operation. Due to movement constraints that result in local economic patterns, individual mobility patterns are expected to occur. However, this matter needs further investigation from people's spatial behaviour during the RMCO. Therefore, this research proposed a new technique for analysing people's spatial behaviour patterns via geo‐tagged data. The data from social media users are gathered using data mining techniques. Geographical Information System (GIS) is used to show the geolocation of social media users and analyse their spatial behaviour. The finding of this analysis shows higher people's movement recorded when the RMCO was enforced; a distinctive pattern where spatial trajectory length is high but spatial area coverage is low. It is noticed that the focal points are concentrated in urban areas and tourism attractions.