bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Pharmacodynamics of Romiplostim in Chinese Subjects With Immune Thrombocytopenia: A Phase I/II Trial
Authors: Qi Junyuan , Zheng Li , Hu Bei , Zhou Hu , He Qing , Liu Hong , Kawai Hironori , Yang Renchi
Published: December 2021

Romiplostim is approved for the treatment of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). This study aimed to evaluate the pharmacokinetics, safety, and pharmacodynamics of romiplostim in Chinese patients with ITP. This multicenter, open‐label, dose‐escalation phase I/II trial enrolled ITP patients from 5 centers in China between October 2015 and August 2017. There were 2 cohorts: 1 μg/kg and 3 μg/kg weekly for 2 weeks. The end points included pharmacokinetics, platelet changes from baseline, hematological indicators, and adverse events (AEs). Sixteen participants, with 8 patients in each cohort, were enrolled. In the 1 μg/kg cohort, time to maximum concentration was 4.00 (4.00‐7.83) hours, maximum serum drug concentration was 52.0 (16.0‐228.0) pg/mL, and area under the serum drug concentration–time curve from time 0 to the last detectable time point was 389 (32.0‐5400) pg · h/mL. In the 3 μg/kg cohort, time to maximum serum drug concentration was 11.91 (4.00‐12.00) hours, maximum serum drug concentration was 105.0 (25.5‐313.0) pg/mL, and half‐life was 12.7 (8.2‐23.6) hours. The absolute change of peak platelet count from baseline was 14 (3‐40) and 72 (3–369) ×109/L in the 1 and 3 μg/kg cohorts, respectively. Seven (87.5%) and eight (100%) participants had treatment‐emergent AEs in 1 μg/kg cohort and 3 μg/kg cohort, respectively. No major AEs occurred in the 2 cohorts. Romiplostim (1 and 3 μg/kg) is safe and well tolerated in Chinese patients with ITP.
Impact of neutral gas puffing on the divertor power exhaust and particle control in GAMMA 10/PDX by the LINDA‐KNMC code
Authors: Islam Md. Shahinul , Nakashima Yousuke , Hatayama Akiyoshi , Hoshino Kazuo , Sakamoto Mizuki
Published: December 2021

This paper numerically investigates the impact of neutral gas puffing on the divertor power exhaust and particle control in GAMMA 10/PDX applying the plasma fluid code LINDA and the kinetic neutral code KMNC. The LINDA code is applied to GAMMA 10/PDX plasmas for understanding the physics of detachment and energy loss processes. The LINDA code is coupled with a Monte–Carlo neutral code for describing the hydrogen (H and H2) neutral particles. The plasma ion temperature (Ti) is reduced towards the target plate with the increment of H2 Gas‐Puff rate. This paper also numerically investigates the impact of recombination processes on the detached formation. The ionization, charge–exchange, and recombination of H have been included as a particle and an energy sink and source parts of the fluid equations. The reaction rate coefficient of molecular activated recombination (MAR) has been recently introduced in the LINDA code. In this paper, we study numerically the effect of MAR on the detached plasma. The MAR plays a dominant role in making the detached plasma. The simulation clarified that H neutral particles injection can effectively generate the detached plasma by enhancing the plasma‐neutral collisions processes.
Re‐thinking historical consciousness in a pandemic: From commemoration to contestability
Authors: Carroll Kay , Littlejohn Kate
Published: December 2021

The paper critiques the curriculum construction of historical consciousness within Australian school systems. National and trans‐national discourses about identity, culture, gender, race and class influence the development of historical consciousness in Australian classrooms. During this unprecedented period of shared grief and global trauma, re‐interpreting historical narratives that build children's concepts of social justice, equity and global inclusivity is important epistemological work for the future. This paper uses survey data and interviews from Australian school children and teachers as the COVID‐19 pandemic emerged to examine what are the key narratives about Indigenous stories, resilience, adversity, global migration, and national identity, and how these narratives distort present realities. The analysis considers how historical consciousness is enacted within the current Australian school curriculum with stories from commemoration to contestability. Survey data from students from school years 6–12 is analysed in terms of how personal agency and empathy is formed through historical practices and inquiry in the classroom. This is supported by interviews about teaching practices. This paper reveals how globalized experiences can bridge historic boundaries of racism, prejudice and exclusion and how curriculum frameworks can develop critical historical consciousness for the future.
Associations between orthorexia, disordered eating, and obsessive–compulsive symptoms: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zagaria Andrea , Vacca Mariacarolina , Cerolini Silvia , Ballesio Andrea , Lombardo Caterina
Published: December 2021

Objective

Orthorexia nervosa (ON) is defined as an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating, focusing on concerns regarding food quality and composition. Currently, there is still a lack of consensus about a clear definition of the construct. Specifically, it has yet to be clarified whether ON pertains to eating disorders (EDs) or obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) spectrum. Hence, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis addressing the magnitude of the association between these groups of symptoms.

Method

PubMed, Medline, SCOPUS, PsychINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched from inception up to February 2021. Data from individual studies were pooled using a random‐effects model. Pearson's r was used as the effect size metric. Subgroup analyses were conducted exploring the role of ON‐related instruments, body mass index, study quality, and cultural context.

Results

Thirty‐six studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the meta‐analysis. Random‐effects model yielded a moderate association between ON and EDs symptoms with an overall effect size of r = .36 (p < .001; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.30–0.43). On the other hand, the results showed a small association between ON and OCD symptoms with a mean effect size of r = .21 (p < .001; 95% CI = 0.15–0.27).

Discussion

Meta‐analytic findings showed that ON symptoms are more associated to EDs compared to OCD. Despite the similarities, the nonhigh magnitude of the pooled correlations suggests that ON might be different from pre‐existing EDs and OCD. Hence, ON might be treated as a stand‐alone ED and included as an emerging syndrome in the DSM classification.
Low base‐substitution mutation rate and predominance of insertion‐deletion events in the acidophilic bacterium Acidobacterium capsulatum
Authors: Kucukyildirim Sibel , Miller Samuel F. , Lynch Michael
Published: December 2021

Analyses of spontaneous mutation have shown that total genome‐wide mutation rates are quantitatively similar for most prokaryotic organisms. However, this view is mainly based on organisms that grow best around neutral pH values (6.0–8.0). In particular, the whole‐genome mutation rate has not been determined for an acidophilic organism. Here, we have determined the genome‐wide rate of spontaneous mutation in the acidophilic Acidobacterium capsulatum using a direct and unbiased method: a mutation‐accumulation experiment followed by whole‐genome sequencing. Evaluation of 69 mutation accumulation lines of A. capsulatum after an average of ~2900 cell divisions yielded a base‐substitution mutation rate of 1.22 × 10−10 per site per generation or 4 × 10−4 per genome per generation, which is significantly lower than the consensus value (2.5−4.6 × 10−3) of mesothermophilic (~15–40°C) and neutrophilic (pH 6–8) prokaryotic organisms. However, the insertion‐deletion rate (0.43 × 10−10 per site per generation) is high relative to the base‐substitution mutation rate. Organisms with a similar effective population size and a similar expected effect of genetic drift should have similar mutation rates. Because selection operates on the total mutation rate, it is suggested that the relatively high insertion‐deletion rate may be balanced by a low base‐substitution rate in A. capsulatum, with selection operating on the total mutation rate.
Compensatory dynamics of lotic algae break down nonlinearly with increasing nutrient enrichment
Authors: Cook Stephen C. , Back Jeffrey A. , King Ryan S.
Published: December 2021

One important mechanism governing the temporal maintenance of biodiversity is asynchrony in co‐occurring competitors due to fluctuating environments (i.e., compensatory dynamics). Temporal niche partitioning has evolved in response to predictable oscillations in environmental conditions so that species may offset competition, but we do not yet have a clear understanding of how novel anthropogenic stressors alter seasonal patterns of succession. Many primary producers are nutrient limited, and enrichment may decrease the importance of environmental fluctuations that govern which species are effective competitors under naturally low nutrient regimes. Consequently, elevated nutrient concentrations may synchronize species responses to seasonality. By studying benthic algal assemblages over 2 years from 35 streams that spanned a wide gradient of nutrient enrichment, we found that compensatory dynamics characterizing seasonal succession under natural nutrient regimes broke down at relatively low levels of total phosphorus (P) enrichment (~ 25 μg/L). With increasing P more species were able to coexist at any given time, and seasonal variation in assemblage composition was characterized by synchronous swings in species biovolumes. We also observed much higher instability in assemblage biovolumes with declines in compensatory dynamics, which indicates that anthropogenic alteration of nutrient regimes can affect community stability by changing the dominant mode of seasonal succession. Our findings indicate that compensatory fluctuations of stream algae are driven by seasonality and provide insight about how nutrient enrichment alters evolved drivers of species coexistence.
Urinary liver‐type fatty acid‐binding protein as a prognostic marker in patients with acute heart failure
Authors: Sunayama Tsutomu , Yatsu Shoichiro , Matsue Yuya , Dotare Taishi , Maeda Daichi , Ishiwata Sayaki , Nakamura Yutaka , Suda Shoko , Kato Takao , Hiki Masaru , Kasai Takatoshi , Minamino Tohru
Published: December 2021

Aims

Urinary liver‐type fatty acid‐binding protein (L‐FABP) is expressed in proximal tubular epithelial cells and excreted into the urine during tubular injury. We hypothesized that high urinary L‐FABP is associated with poor prognosis in patients with acute heart failure (AHF).

Methods and results

We analysed 623 patients (74 ± 13 years old; 60.0% male patients) with AHF. Urinary L‐FABP levels were measured at the time of admission and adjusted for the urinary creatinine concentration. The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality. The median value and interquartile range of urinary L‐FABP levels were 6.66 and 3.37–21.1 μg/gCr, respectively. Urinary L‐FABP levels were significantly correlated with both beta‐2 microglobulin and cystatin C levels; the correlation with the former was higher than that with the latter. During the follow‐up of 631 (interquartile range: 387–875) days, 142 deaths occurred. A high tertile of urinary L‐FABP level was associated with high mortality; this association was retained after adjusting for other covariates (second tertile hazard ratio 1.40, P = 0.152 vs. first tertile; third tertile hazard ratio 1.94, P = 0.005 vs. first tertile).

Conclusions

Urinary L‐FABP is more closely associated with tubular dysfunction than with glomerular dysfunction. Tubular dysfunction, which was evaluated based on urinary L‐FABP levels, in patients with AHF is associated with all‐cause mortality and is independent of pre‐existing risk factors. L‐FABP should be considered for use in the prognosis of AHF.
Contributions of Erhard Kurras to Organochromium Chemistry – From a Historical Perspective
Authors: Rosenthal Uwe , Schulz Axel
Published: December 2021

Starting from the fundamental organometallic research work of Franz Hein, Erhard Kurras investigated the possibility of isolating stable organochromium compounds. He studied the existence of σ‐alkyl and σ‐alkylene complexes, π‐allyl compounds, as well as dichromium complexes containing a chromium‐chromium quadruple bond. Since that time a variety of organochromium compounds have been developed by the scientific community. In this article, we highlight the scientific work of Erhard Kurras by using selected examples. Most of these examples represent very important contributions to the field of chromium complex chemistry, as they were completely new at that time in terms of bonding, activation of small molecules, and finally catalytic behavior. We believe that Kurras's fundamental work has opened a new chapter in organometallic chemistry.
Personalizing Diabetes Management in Liver Transplant Recipients: The New Era for Optimizing Risk Management
Authors: Richardson Brooks , Khan Mohammad Qasim , Brown Sara A , Watt Kymberly D , Izzy Manhal
Published: December 2021

Post‐transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality in liver transplant recipients (LTRs). With concurrent comorbidities and use of various immunosuppression medications, identifying a safe and personalized regimen for management of PTDM is needed. There are many comorbidities associated with the post‐transplant course including chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, allograft steatosis, obesity, and de novo malignancy. Emerging data suggest that available diabetes medications may carry beneficial or, in some cases, harmful effects in the setting of these co‐existing conditions. Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitors and glucagon‐like peptide 1 receptor agonists have shown the most promising beneficial results. Although there is a deficiency of LTR‐specific data, they appear to be generally safe. Effects of other medications are varied. Metformin may reduce the risk of malignancy. Pioglitazone may be harmful in patients combatting obesity or heart failure. Insulin may exacerbate obesity and increase the risk of developing malignancy. This review thoroughly discusses the roles of these extra‐glycemic effects and safety considerations in LTRs. Through weighing the risks and benefits, we conclude that alternatives to insulin should be strongly considered, when feasible, for personalized long‐term management based on risk factors and co‐morbidities.
Prevalence of workplace violence against general practitioners: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tian Kunming , Xiao Xue , Zeng Rong , Xia Wenqi , Feng Jing , Gan Yong , Zhou Yuanzhong
Published: December 2021

Global Conference on Primary Health Care identified that promoting the primary healthcare system has become an important work. Workplace violence (WPV) against GPs is an important global problem. This study aimed to summarise the evidence on the prevalence of WPV against GPs. We systematically searched the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases, and the references of retrieved articles to identify studies on reporting the prevalence of WPV against GPs. We included 15 eligible studies in this meta‐analysis. 63.1% (95% confidence interval (CI): 55.6%–70.6%) experienced any form of WPV, 33.8% (95% CI: 25.3%–42.3%) encountered non‐physical violence, and 8.5% (95% CI: 5.7%–11.4%) reported experiencing physical violence. The proportion of physical violence differed across study location, sex, and practice setting, and the prevalence of physical violence increased with study period. No significant differences in the prevalence of non‐physical violence in sex and study location were found. The prevalence of WPV against GPs is high. A higher prevalence of physical violence was found in some Asian countries (such as China), male GPs, and primary care.
To simulate or not to simulate? Comparing the effectiveness of video‐based training versus virtual reality‐based simulations on interpersonal skills development
Authors: Akdere Mesut , Jiang Yeling , Acheson Kris
Published: December 2021

Emerging technologies coupled with the power of big data will transform organizations, requiring drastic changes to traditional approaches in training, communications, and team collaboration, to name only a few examples. Scholars and practitioners in the HRD field are tasked with empirically studying these new phenomena in order to assist both employees and organizations in effectively transitioning to future work. The advent of technological innovations has opened a new frontier of simulated training, including virtual reality‐based simulations (VRBS). But are these innovations more effective than traditional approaches, such as video‐based training (VBT)? Empirical investigations of these emerging technologies have been limited in the field of HRD. The current study addresses the gap in the HRD literature by conducting the first empirical research related to VR technology and its impact on training. The paper examines VRBS with a mixed methods research design within the interpersonal skills training context, comparing the effectiveness of this new medium to more traditional training platforms such as VBT. Results were mixed, with all hypotheses at least partially supported by data. Findings suggest that VR does engage trainees more fully and generate more transferable knowledge than video. The paper triangulates quantitative and qualitative data to draw conclusions and highlight issues that are emerging along with this new technology.
Changes in weight and waist circumference during menopausal transition and postmenopausal breast cancer risk
Authors: Park Boyoung
Published: December 2021

Our study aimed to investigate the association between changes in weight and waist circumference (WC) during menopausal transition and breast cancer risk in Asian women. In total, 184 931 women aged 40 to 59 years with a premenopausal status at the first screening in 2009 to 2010 and a postmenopausal status at the second screening in 2011 to 2012 were included in the analysis. Changes in weight and WC during menopausal transition were classified as loss (>2.5 kg; >2.5 cm), stable (±2.5 kg; ±2.5 cm), and gain (2.5‐4.9 kg, ≥5 kg; 2.5‐4.9 cm, ≥5 cm). WC gain of 5 cm or more during menopausal transition was associated with an increased risk of breast cancer with an HR of 1.15 (95% CI = 1.01‐1.30), compared to stable WC (±2.5 cm). Among obese premenopausal women, increased WC ≥5 cm during menopausal transition was associated with increased breast cancer risk with an HR of 1.22 (95% CI = 1.03‐1.44). Similarly, in women with premenopausal WC ≥80 cm, increased WC of ≥5 cm during menopausal transition was likely to increase the breast cancer risk (HR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.13‐1.88) than in women with stable WC. However, in premenopausal women with BMI <23 kg/m2 or WC <80 cm, changes in WC during menopausal transition did not show an association. Weight gain during menopausal transition was not associated with the risk of breast cancer. Changes in central obesity during menopausal transition in combination with premenopausal obesity status are associated with breast cancer risk after menopause.
Endometrial cancer prognosis in women with endometriosis and adenomyosis: A retrospective nationwide cohort study of 40 840 women
Authors: Hermens Marjolein , van Altena Anne M. , van der Aa Maaike , Bulten Johan , van Vliet Huib A. A. M. , Siebers Albert G. , Bekkers Ruud L. M.
Published: December 2021

We aim to compare endometrial cancer survival in women with or without histological proven endometriosis or adenomyosis. We identified all women with endometrial cancer between 1990 and 2015 from the Netherlands Cancer Registry (NCR). Data were linked to the Dutch pathology database (PALGA) to select all women with histological proven endometriosis/adenomyosis. Overall survival was compared between women with endometrial cancer with or without endometriosis/adenomyosis. We used multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis to estimate hazard ratios (HRs). We included 1701 women with endometrial cancer and endometriosis/adenomyosis, of whom 1236 (72.7%) women had adenomyosis, 320 (18.8%) had endometriosis and 145 (8.5%) had both. We compared these women to 39 139 women with endometrial cancer without endometriosis/adenomyosis. Women in the combined endometriosis/adenomyosis cohort were younger at endometrial cancer diagnosis, had earlier disease stage, more often had endometrioid endometrial cancer and low grade tumors. The 5‐year survival rate in the combined endometriosis/adenomyosis cohort was 84.8% (95% CI 84.6‐88.1) and 71.6% (95% CI 71.1‐72.0) in the nonendometriosis/adenomyosis cohort. Univariable analysis resulted in a crude HR of 0.63 (95% CI 0.59‐0.69). Significant confounding factors were age, stage, cancer subtype, histological grading, surgery and chemotherapy rate. Correction for these confounders resulted in a HR of 0.98 (95% CI 0.90‐1.06). Including endometriosis/adenomyosis status as a categorical factor resulted in similar HRs. In conclusion, women with endometrial cancer and histologically proven endometriosis/adenomyosis have a better overall survival when compared to women with endometrial cancer without endometriosis/adenomyosis. This better survival was correlated to stage, grade, age and histological subtype, but not to the presence of endometriosis/adenomyosis.
Orbital Engineering in Chemistry
Authors: Jemmis Eluvathingal D. , Ghorai Sagar
Published: December 2021

During the Search for a relationship between boranes and allotropes of elemental boron, several chemical problems came up: mechanism of 1,2‐shift in vinyl cations, relative stability of polyhedral boranes, carboranes, pyramidal cations, Non‐planar 2π aromaticity, pseudo π* aromaticity, sequential dehydrogenation and polycondensation of polyhedral boranes, design of stuffed boron fullerenes and C−C bond making and breaking processes belong to this group. A common thread that runs through these projects is the use of frontier molecular orbitals to design, control and explain chemical observations. Such manipulation of molecular orbitals as a design element is introduced here as Orbital Engineering which continues to help in 2D boron also.
Toward high‐performance lithium‐oxygen batteries with cobalt‐based transition metal oxide catalysts: Advanced strategies and mechanical insights
Authors: Liu Zhenjie , Zhao Zhiwei , Zhang Wang , Huang Yang , Liu Ying , Wu Dianlun , Wang Lei , Chou Shulei
Published: December 2021

Aprotic lithium‐oxygen (Li‐O2) batteries represent a promising next‐generation energy storage system due to their extremely high theoretical specific capacity compared with all known batteries. Their practical realization is impeded, however, by the sluggish kinetics for the most part, resulting in high overpotential and poor cycling performance. Due to the high catalytic activity and favorable stability of Co‐based transition metal oxides, they are regarded as the most likely candidate catalysts, facilitating researchers to solve the sluggish kinetics issue. Herein, this review first presents recent advanced design strategies for Co‐based transition metal oxides in Li‐O2 batteries. Then, the fundamental insights related to the catalytic processes of Co‐based transition metal oxides in traditional and novel Li‐O2 electrochemistry systems are summarized. Finally, we conclude with the current limitations and future development directions of Co‐based transition metal oxides, which will contribute to the rational design of catalysts and the practical applications of Li‐O2 batteries.

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A structured self‐reflection approach to improve reflection quality and assessment of advanced pharmacy practice experience professionalization
Authors: Briceland Laurie L. , Caimano Tackes Courtney , Veselov Megan
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) provide ample opportunity for students to acclimate into pharmacy roles and experience professionalization through authentic practice. A structured APPE self‐reflection process improvement was implemented to assist students in writing higher quality reflections, and to better capture themes of student professionalization.

Objectives

The purpose of this paper was to describe experience with the structured self‐reflection format and (a) determine the most impactful APPE professionalization themes derived from student self‐categorization; and (b) analyze self‐reflections for inclusion of actionable professional development plans.

Methods

A four‐step structured APPE self‐reflection format, abbreviated IDEA (Identify, Describe, Evaluate, and Actionable Plan), was created to standardize the reflection process. For each APPE, students (N = 211) completed the IDEA by selecting a theme of professionalization impact (from 15 predetermined choices) and crafting a self‐reflection. For the APPE annual cycle, themes of professionalization impact were compiled and grouped into overarching categories spanning development in practice or communication skills, student professional development, and collaborative teamwork. A rubric was developed for faculty to evaluate levels of reflection with a goal of critical reflection (evidence of transformative behavior or perspectives) described in actionable professional development plans.

Results

Two hundred eleven students completed 1473 IDEA self‐reflections (6.9 per student). All 15 themes of impact were selected for self‐reflection, with “practice skills development/experiencing new curricular discipline” being most prevalent. Critical reflection was attained in 968 (65.7%) of reflections. A decline in criticality over time was noted, with the first six APPE modules averaging 73% and dropping to 54% and 34% in the final two modules, respectively.

Conclusion

The IDEA structured APPE self‐reflection enables students to readily identify professionalization themes and reflect upon their impact. Two‐thirds of reflections indicated actionable professional development plans, indicative of professionalization and transformative learning.
Chronic pain and medical cannabis: Narrative review and practice considerations in persons living with HIV
Authors: Mills Alex R. , Nichols Molly A. , Davenport Elizabeth
Published: December 2021

Globally, 38 million persons live with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PLWH), and a significant portion live with chronic pain. While not yet fully characterized, preliminary data suggest 40%‐83% of PLWH experience chronic pain, and many report undertreatment. A growing body of literature suggests undertreatment of chronic pain in PLWH leads to adverse clinical outcomes, such as poor retention in HIV care, suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy, and increased use of intravenous drug use (eg, heroin). Chronic pain experienced by PLWH ranges from neuropathic to musculoskeletal with different etiologies and treatment modalities for each. Although opioids have been used to achieve analgesia in PLWH, there is growing interest in alternative pain therapies. Recently, medical cannabis (delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol [THC] and cannabidiol [CBD]) products have been of high interest. Anecdotal evidence exists for medical cannabis and pain relief; however, robust clinical trial data are limited due to scheduling restrictions within the United States. The purposes of this narrative review are to summarize key literature for pain in PLWH and medical cannabis, discuss pertinent dosage forms and dosing schedules, and summarize safety and efficacy considerations for PLWH. Finally, the authors provide recommendations on cannabis rescheduling and pharmacists' and healthcare providers' roles in its prescribing and indication. Medical cannabis and pharmaceutical preparations containing both THC and CBD are a viable alternatives to opioid analgesics in the treatment of neuropathic pain in PLWH. The risks of misuse and cannabis use disorder warrant careful consideration, yet the benefits of effective analgesia associated with cannabis may outweigh these risks. Cannabis rescheduling and subsequent expansions in pain management research are warranted, particularly for CBD‐predominant and CBD‐isolate medical cannabis products.
Therapeutic alliance and childhood interpersonal trauma: The role of attachment, cultural humility, and therapeutic presence
Authors: Grad Ramona I.
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to assess the role of insecure attachment style, cultural humility, and therapeutic presence in the development of therapeutic alliance in a sample of adults with a history of childhood interpersonal trauma (N = 251). Multiple regression analyses indicated that cultural humility, therapeutic presence, and lower levels of attachment anxiety together accounted for 66.6% of the variance in therapeutic alliance. Implications for counselors, limitations, and directions for future research are provided.
Recent advances in methods for the diagnosis of Corona Virus Disease 2019
Authors: Guo Jie , Ge Jiaxin , Guo Yanan
Published: December 2021

Since the beginning of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) pandemic, it has been clear that effective methods for the diagnosis of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) are the key tools to control its epidemic. The current gold standard for diagnosing COVID‐19 is the real‐time quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), which is a sensitive and specific method to detect SARS‐CoV‐2. Other RNA‐based methods include RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq), droplet digital reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (ddRT‐PCR), reverse transcription loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (RT‐LAMP), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR). The serological testing of antibodies (IgM and IgG), nanoparticle‐based lateral‐flow assay, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) can be used to enhance the detection sensitivity and accuracy. Because antibodies are usually detected a week after the onset of symptoms, these tests are used to assess the overall infection rate in the community. Sine the fact that healthcare varies from country to country across the world, different types of diagnosing COVID‐19 imaging technologies including chest computed tomography (CT), chest radiography, and lung ultrasound are used in different degrees. Besides, the pooling test is an important public health tool to reduce cost and increase testing capacity in low‐risk area, while artificial intelligence (AI) may aid to increase the diagnostic efficiency of imaging‐based methods. Finally, depending on the type of samples and stages of the disease, a combination of information on patient demographics and histories, clinical symptoms, results of molecular and serological diagnostic tests, and imaging information is highly recommended to achieve adequate diagnosis of patients with COVID‐19.
Contact theory and the multiethnic community of Riace, Italy: An ethnographic examination
Authors: Driel Ester Y. , Verkuyten Maykel
Published: December 2021

This article uses the case of Riace, a small multiethnic community in Southern Italy, as a lens to evaluate key theoretical and methodological aspects of the influential Intergroup Contact Theory. The article draws upon 10 months of ethnographic fieldwork in Riace, Italy, a town that for more than 20 years has hosted and integrated refugees into the local community. We analyzed the ethnographic material in light of assumptions underlying intergroup contact theory. Findings demonstrate that friendly everyday interactions between inhabitants of different ethnic backgrounds serve as the critical “social glue” for the Riace community, but that there are social inequalities, as well as group stereotypes, group‐based friendships, and spatial segregation. The different interpretations and nuanced outcomes of everyday social interactions demonstrate the importance of a contextualized understanding of the nature and implications of intergroup contact in real‐world settings for future research and policies.
Different Kinetics of Activated Clotting Time Among Uninterrupted Oral Anticoagulants During Catheter Ablation Procedure
Authors: Kawaji Tetsuma , Morimoto Takeshi , Aizawa Takanori , Hojo Shun , Kushiyama Akihiro , Yaku Hidenori , Nakatsuma Kenji , Kaneda Kazuhisa , Kato Masashi , Yokomatsu Takafumi , Miki Shinji , Kimura Takeshi
Published: December 2021

Activated clotting time (ACT) kinetics under uninterrupted oral anticoagulants (OACs) has not been fully evaluated. The present study is sought to validate ACT kinetics including stability under uninterrupted use of OACs during an ablation procedure in daily clinical practice. We prospectively enrolled consecutive 554 patients with atrial fibrillation who underwent catheter ablation procedure under uninterrupted OACs. We evaluated ACT kinetics at an interval of 15 minutes during the procedure and periprocedural complications among 5 OACs (dabigatran [N = 46], rivaroxaban [N = 125], apixaban [N = 129], edoxaban [N = 184], and warfarin [N = 70]). Compared with the dabigatran group, time to achieve target ACT was significantly longer in the rivaroxaban and apixaban groups, but not in the edoxaban and warfarin groups (8.7 vs 11.7 minutes, P < .001; 13.3 minutes, P < .001; 8.8 minutes, P = .64; 10.3 minutes, P = .19, respectively). Heparin dose to achieve target ACT was comparable except for the warfarin group, whereas, compared with the dabigatran group, time in therapeutic range of ACT within the first hour was comparable in the rivaroxaban and apixaban group but significantly lower in the edoxaban and warfarin groups (73.7 % vs 63.0%, P = .06; 67.0 %, P = .16; 59.2 %, P = .001; 58.2%, P = .004, respectively). In multiple regression analysis, low body weight, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and morning session had significant associations with time and heparin dose to achieve target ACT, and there were positive associations of dabigatran and apixaban with time in therapeutic range of ACT within the first hour. The incidence of periprocedural complications did not significantly differ among the 5 groups. Under uninterrupted OAC use in daily clinical practice, dabigatran showed faster achievement of target ACT and higher stability of ACT than other OACs.
Selective determination of Cr(III) by modified carbon nanotube paste electrode: a potentiometric study
Authors: Barati Zahra , Masrournia Mahboubeh , Es'haghi Zarrin , Jahani Moslem , Ebrahimi Javad
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Potentiometric detections based on ion‐selective electrodes offer the advantages of simplicity, speed, and low cost over other electrochemical methods. In this work, the preparation of a novel carbon‐paste electrochemical sensor containing the synthesized N‐(1‐(4‐bromophenyl)‐3‐oxo‐3‐phenylpropyl)acetamide is described. Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were incorporated into the electrode composition to promote electron transfer reactions. The modified carbon paste electrode was evaluated as a selective sensor for the detection of chromium (III).

RESULTS

The prepared sensor showed nearly stable potentials in the pH range of 4.0–6.5, with a fast response time (<15 s). At the optimum conditions, the potentiometric method exhibited a linear response toward Cr(III) concentration in the range of 5.0 × 10−7 to 1.0 × 10−3 mol L−1 with a Nernstian slope of 19.5 ± 0.1 mV per decade and a detection limit of 3.1 × 10−7 mol L−1.

CONCLUSION

The proposed sensor possesses the advantages of good selectivity to Cr(III) and an improved detection limit compared to the results of some other studies. Better selectivity can be attributed to the ability of the ionophore to form a stable chelate with Cr(III) ions. The new Cr(III) sensor showed excellent stability over 8 weeks and its response time was comparable to other previously reported chromium ion‐selective electrodes (ISEs) . The simple, fast, and cheap synthesis method of ionophore provided other advantages for this study. The modified electrode was also used as a sensor for the end‐point detection in the potentiometric titration of Cr(III) against ethylenediaminetetra acetic acid (EDTA). © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Use of scanning electron microscopy to analyze sculpturing pattern and internal features of pollen grain wall in some members ofAstragaleae(subfamily: Papilionoidae)
Authors: Rashid Neelam , Zafar Muhammad , Ahmad Mushtaq , Malik Khafsa , Shah Syed Nasar , Sultana Shazia , Zahid Nafeesa , Noshad Qumqum , Siddiq Zafar
Published: December 2021

Palynological features of tribeAstagaleaeL. have been observed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), to assess features that can be used to re‐examine the placement and taxonomic position of tribe. The palynomorph attributes of 10 species included in three genera ofAstragaleae(AstragalusL.,GlycyrrhizaL., andOxytropisDC.) are investigated. The assignment of genusOxytropisin tribeAstragaleaewas also reevaluated based on pollen characters. Pollen appear to be prolate, prolate‐spheroidal, and subprolate. Polar axis size (P) varies from 31.3 μm ±1 to 17.5 μm ±1.4 and equatorial axis size (E) varies from 22.2 μm ±1.8 to 13.1 μm ±0.9. Prominent apertures found consistently dispersed along the surface of pollen. Three kinds of ornamentation pattern were recorded, that is, reticulate or reticulate‐perforate and perforate. The studied species display variation in equatorial and polar diameter, aperturation and sculpturing pattern, exine thickness, and pollen shape. On the basis of descriptive pollen features, a dichotomous taxonomic key and UPGMA analysis has been made for effortless and quick identification. The study concluded that disparities of the entire features are typically unrelenting and concerned with the species and shows potential systematic significance. The combination of palynological attributes in association with additional traits has prospective for systematic identification at species and genus level.
Influence of selenium on the mycelia of the shaggy bracket fungus, Inonotus hispidus
Authors: Song Feifei , Su Dewei , Keyhani Nemat O , Wang Cui , Shen Ligong , Qiu Junzhi
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Selenium (Se) is a needed trace element for animals and humans. Many fungi have effective mechanisms to acquire, transform and accumulate Se in organic form. In this study, the effects of inorganic Se (sodium selenite) on the medicinal fungus Inonotus hispidus was investigated.

RESULTS

Inonotus hispidus was capable of tolerating up to 3.85 mmol L−1 selenite, at which ~85% growth inhibition was seen, with 50% growth inhibition occurring at ~1 mmol L−1 selenite. Growth in 0.29 mmol L−1 Se resulted in I. hispidus mycelium with 115 times higher Se levels compared to growth in standard media, and an organic Se content of 86% to total Se content. The influence of Se accumulation on morphological features of I. hispidus were examined by microscopic and scanning electron microscopic observation. These data revealed significant shrinkage and deformations of I. hispidus hyphae with decreased branching and collapse of clamp connections under higher Se stress. However, conidial production in I. hispidus increased dramatically. The influence of Se on mycelial growth could be recovered by reinoculation in standard media. Se accumulation had only minimal impacts on the yield of the potential selenocompounds such as amino acids, proteins and polysaccharides. By contrast, Se‐enriched I. hispidus mycelium was of higher quality due to reduction in crude fat and total ash contents.

CONCLUSIONS

These data provide basic and applied information on the feasibility of producing selenized I. hispidus as an enriched and better quality product. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Application of far‐infrared radiation for sun‐dried chili pepper (Capsicum annum L.): drying characteristics and color during roasting
Authors: Fernando A. Jayaruwani , Amaratunga Sanath
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Chili is hygroscopic and needs a fast‐drying method before feeding into pulverizers. The far‐infrared radiation (FIR) roasting technique provides various benefits, such as higher drying rates within a short duration, reduction of mycotoxins, and improvement in the textural quality of agricultural produce. In addition, thin‐layer modeling supports understanding the drying kinetics of agricultural produce. Therefore, the objective of this research was to study the thin‐layer drying characteristics and color of whole chili pod and its components (i.e. seeds, pedicel, and placenta) of sun‐dried chili during FIR roasting. The samples were dried at 7.76 μm (100 °C), 6.12 μm (200 °C), 5.056 μm (300 °C), and 4.30 μm (400 °C) by exposing them to FIR in a single layer and the drying kinetics were studied using the Midilli model. Further, the color variation during FIR roasting was studied.

RESULTS

FIR roasting of chili pods and their components (i.e. seeds, pedicel, and placenta) shows a falling rate drying period at each wavelength. The moisture content decreased with decreasing FIR wavelength. The ∆E values for pods, pedicel, and placenta were increased during FIR roasting. The Midilli model results in R2 and root‐mean‐square error value ranges of 0.7563–1.000 and 5 × 10−8–0.1238 respectively for the current study. The Midilli model at 300 °C shows that the FIR has minor variation compared with other FIR temperatures.

CONCLUSION

FIR technology can be implemented to roast chili pods and their components (i.e. seeds, pedicel, and placenta) within a short period. Further, the application of FIR for roasting purposes desirably increases the color variation. The Midilli model can effectively describe the drying kinetics of the chili pods and their components during FIR roasting. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
The anti‐hyperuricemic effect of flavonoid extract of saffron by‐product and its pharmacokinetics in rats after oral administration
Authors: Chen Na , Wang Weihao , Xiang Junjie , Li Tao , Wang Lan , Liang Rixin , Yang Bin
Published: December 2021

Only the dried stigma of the saffron, a flower deemed as the most valuable spice globally, is utilized for industrial production. Hence, there exists a growing interest in utilizing saffron floral bio‐residues. The anti‐hyperuricemic activity of a flavonoid extract from saffron floral bio‐residues was assessed in potassium oxonate‐induced hyperuricemia mice. In addition, an ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐triple quadrupole mass spectrometry method was established and validated to determine the pharmacokinetics of five main flavonoids and three phase‐II metabolites in rat plasma after oral administration of the flavonoid extract for the first time. Compared with pharmacokinetic parameters of kaempferol‐3‐O‐sophoroside, the most abundant flavonoid in the extract, and its aglycone kaempferol, we observed that coexisting compounds significantly reduced the absorption, accelerated the excretion of kaempferol‐3‐O‐sophoroside, while significantly increasing the absorption and prolonging the residence time of kaempferol in the flavonoid extract. These results suggest the promising potential of the flavonoid extract from saffron floral bio‐residues as an anti‐hyperuricemic agent. Kaempferol was absorbed in plasma at high concentrations owing to the biotransformation of kaempferol glycosides in vivo.
Influence of Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue and Skeletal Muscle Thickness on Rectus Femoris Echo Intensity in Younger and Older Males and Females
Authors: Paris Michael T. , Bell Kirsten E. , Avrutin Egor , Rosati Katherine , Mourtzakis Marina
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Ultrasound measurements of muscle echo intensity are commonly used surrogates of muscle composition (eg, intramuscular adipose tissue). However, given that soundwaves are increasingly attenuated with tissue depth, the interpretation of echo intensity may be confounded by adipose and skeletal muscle thickness. Our objectives are to compare the associations between adipose or muscle tissue thickness and rectus femoris echo intensity in younger and older males and females.

Methods

Participants included in this analysis were derived from 3 previously published cohorts of younger (<45 years) and older (≥60 years) males and females. Ultrasound images of the rectus femoris were evaluated for muscle thickness, echo intensity, and subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness.

Results

Older adults (n: 49 males, 19 females) had a higher body mass index (P = .001) compared with younger adults (n: 37 males, 49 females). Muscle thickness was negatively associated with echo intensity in older males (r = −0.59) and females (r = −0.53), whereas no associations were observed in younger males (r = 0.00) or females (r = −0.11). Subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness displayed no associations with echo intensity in any group.

Conclusions

Despite the known influence of subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness on beam attenuation, we observed no association with muscle echo intensity, indicating that adipose tissue correction may be required to better understand muscle echo intensity across differences in adiposity. The negative associations between muscle thickness and echo intensity in older, but not younger adults, suggests these associations may be related to the co‐occurrence of skeletal muscle atrophy and intramuscular adipose tissue infiltration with advancing age.
Risk to native marine macroalgae from land‐use and climate change‐related modifications to groundwater discharge in Hawaiʻi
Authors: Dulai Henrietta , Smith Celia M. , Amato Daniel W. , Gibson Veronica , Bremer Leah L.
Published: December 2021

Coastal groundwater‐dependent ecosystems benefit from lowered salinity, nutrient‐rich submarine groundwater discharge (SGD). Across Pacific islands marine macroalgae appear to have been challenged by and adapted to the stress of lowered salinity with a trade‐off of nutrient subsidies delivered by SGD. Human alterations of groundwater resources and climate change‐driven shifts brought modifications to the magnitude and composition of SGD. This paper discusses how native macroalgae have adapted to SGD nutrient and salinity gradients, but that invasive algae are outcompeting the natives near SGD with nutrient pollution. It is important to re‐evaluate land and water use practices by modifying groundwater sustainable yields and improving wastewater infrastructure to keep SGD reductions minimal and nitrogen inputs in optimal ranges. This task may be particularly challenging amidst global sea level rise and reductions in groundwater recharge, which threaten coastal groundwater systems and ecosystems dependent on them.
Photoacoustic Imaging of Brain Functions: Wide Filed‐of‐View Functional Imaging with High Spatiotemporal Resolution
Authors: Jin Tian , Qi Weizhi , Liang Xiao , Guo Heng , Liu Quanying , Xi Lei
Published: December 2021

Neuroimaging techniques can reveal complex brain functions associated with behaviors and emotions. However, most existing neuroimaging methods suffer from balancing tradeoffs among the temporal and spatial resolutions as well as the field of view (FOV). A high spatiotemporal resolution photoacoustic neuroimaging (PANI) technique with a wide FOV sufficient to cover the entire mouse cerebral cortex in transverse plane and measure fast neuronal dynamics is developed. Based on the experimental validations from both drug‐induced epilepsy and electrical stimulation in the mouse brain, PANI features the following capabilities: i) deriving functional information from the fluctuation of total hemoglobin (HbT) to identify the neural activity and connectivity of the mouse cortex; ii) integrating with other neurological recording methods such as electroencephalograph (EEG) to investigate the neurovascular coupling; and iii) revealing the interactive connectivity between distant brain regions under different physiological conditions. The special features of PANI offer a unique window on investigating the fast neural dynamics with a wide FOV at the capillary scale.