bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pour une lecture queer contrainte de Sphinx d’Anne Garréta : entre clinamen et variables sur le genre
Authors: Lebrec Caroline
Published: December 2021

Le titre du premier roman d’Anne Garréta,Sphinx, pose la question de l’énigme et de son réseau indiciel dans le texte par le biais d’une écriture qui efface les traces du genre et de l’identité sexuée dans la langue française pour aller vers le discours du neutre et du non-dit. À partir d’une lecturequeerdeSphinxet de la poétique de l’écriture à contraintes, nous voyons comment la performativité du réseau péritextuel, les contraintes oulipiennes et le dispositif oulipien duclinamenpermettent non pas de résoudre l’énigme mais de révéler le régime énigmatique d’un texte qui se présente sous forme de variables sur le genre et les identités sexuelles.
Underway to suprematism: comparative analysis of the works of Kazimir Malevich of 1913–1914
Authors: Tolstikhina Ekaterina Mikhailovna
Published: December 2021

The subject of this research is the works of Kazimir Malevich of the period 1913–1914. Despite numerous scientific works and articles dedicated to the works of K. Malevich, the period of his becoming requires clarification. The object of this research is the Russian avant-garde art of 1913 – 1914. The author dwells on the compositional principles in the painter’s works of this period. Special attention is given to the colorful shapes and geometric elements underlying the compositions of his paintings. Analysis is conducted on the the path of Kazimir Severinovich, the transition from Futurism and Cubo-Futurism through Fevralism to the original style – suprematism. The philosophical and art history analysis in combination with the general scientific methods of research allowed developing a representation on the transformation the artistic pursuits of Kazimir Malevich towards the dominant of the black geometric colorful shape, which subsequently led to the creation of the “Black Square” and the formation of suprematism. The article examines and compares the paintings of the period 1913–1914, when Malevich had moved from being a mentee to creating his own artistic language. The study of the paintings by Kazimir Malevich and determination of large group of works similar in the techniques and colors used allows broadening and complementing the knowledge on the period prior to suprematism.
A history of interdisciplinary research on Lake Wigry
Authors: Aleksander-Kwaterczak Urszula , Król Katarzyna
Published: December 2021

Lake Wigry is one of the best explored lakes in Poland, a feat which has been achieved thanks to the pas-sion and efforts of numerous scientists. This tremendous endeavour was supervised and coordinated by Professor Jacek Rutkowski and January 2021 marked the fifth anniversary of the professor’s death. To mark this occasion, a history of research on the lake was compiled on the basis of oral accounts and an overview of the works that have been created thanks to his ideas, supervision, and boundless empathy. It is crucial to continue the research, since it will allow for the even better protection of the environment, as well as the natural and landscape attributes of the Wigry region.
Assessment of the health risk associated with exposure to heavy metals present in particulate matter deposition in the Małopolska Province
Authors: Wieczorek Jerzy , Baran Agnieszka , Pawlik Ewa , Mądro Izabela , Gąsienica Anna , Wojtaszek Iwona , Antonkiewicz Jacek
Published: December 2021

The aim of the study was to investigate the content of trace elements in deposited particulate matter and to estimate the health risk to Kraków inhabitants, caused by the exposure to heavy metals in particulate matter deposition. The qualitative and quantitative assessments of selected heavy metals in deposited particulate matter have been carried out in the city of Kraków (Małopolska, southern Poland, 5 measuring points) for seven months, between February and September 2017. A comparative study was conducted at the same time in Małopolska (5 measuring points). The deposited particulate matter was collected gravitationally, using measurement plates covered with aluminum foil and paraffin jelly. The largest deposition of particulate matter was found in May and June. The highest amount of deposited particulate matter and metals present in it was determined in Kraków. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) evaluation for non-carcinogenic effect showed low risk for each metal. In the case of lead in particulate matter, the carcinogenic risk value did not reach 10−6 hence this risk is acceptable. The total carcinogenic risk for all routes of exposure to cadmium was higher, indicating the risk of cancer in children and adults, with children more exposed. However, the carcinogenic risk for cadmium was also acceptable. The study showed that the problem of poor air quality concerns not only the city of Kraków, but also the entire Małopolska region. Elevated metal concentrations in particulate matter indicate the need for monitoring it in the air.
Thinking with the world – to explore the becoming of phenomena
Authors: Bergstedt Bosse
Published: December 2021

This article discusses how it is possible to think with the world in educational research. How can this thinking with the world generate knowledge about the becoming of phenomena? To answer this question this paper undertakes a diffractive reading of selected texts from Niels Bohr, Karen Barad, Gilles Deleuze, Felix Guattari, Donna Haraway, and Michel Serres. This diffractive reading reveals that the world becomes with itself contributing to an internal principle or an inner self-differentiation. This means that all phenomena can be understood as related to the world in one way or another. This paper contends that the researcher body is important to investigations of the becoming of phenomena with the world, therefore a haptic sensorium is developed as a means to visualize bodily affects and to recognize limit values to the world, for example, background noise. The article concludes with a discussion about creating knowledge of this process as a rhizome. The article attempts to illustrate that thinking with the world can generate new knowledge to understand the becoming of phenomena, which can contribute to the development of educational research.
Kinship verification and recognition based on handcrafted and deep learning feature-based techniques
Authors: Nader Nermeen , El-Gamal Fatma El-Zahraa , El-Sappagh Shaker , Kwak Kyung Sup , Elmogy Mohammed
Published: December 2021

Background and Objectives

Kinship verification and recognition (KVR) is the machine’s ability to identify the genetic and blood relationship and its degree between humans’ facial images. The face is used because it is one of the most significant ways to recognize each other. Automatic KVR is an interesting area for investigation. It greatly affects real-world applications, such as searching for lost family members, forensics, and historical and genealogical studies. This paper presents a comprehensive survey that describes KVR applications and kinship types. It presents a literature review of current studies starting from handcrafted passing through shallow metric learning and ending with deep learning feature-based techniques. Furthermore, kinship mostly used datasets are discussed that in turn open the way for future directions for the research in this field. Also, the KVR limitations are discussed, such as insufficient illumination, noise, occlusion, and age variations problems. Finally, future research directions are presented, such as age and gender variation problems.

Methods

We applied a literature survey methodology to retrieve data from academic databases. An inclusion and exclusion criteria were set. Three stages were followed to select articles. Finally, the main KVR stages, along with the main methods in each stage, were presented. We believe that surveys can help researchers easily to detect areas that require more development and investigation.

Results

It was found that handcrafted, metric learning, and deep learning were widely utilized in kinship verification and recognition problem using facial images.

Conclusions

Despite the scientific efforts that aim to address this hot research topic, many future research areas require investigation, such as age and gender variation. In the end, the presented survey makes it easier for researchers to identify the new areas that require more investigation and research.
In Situ Fabrication of Porous CoxP Hierarchical Nanostructures on Carbon Fiber Cloth with Exceptional Performance for Sodium Storage
Authors: Yuan Guobao , Liu Dapeng , Feng Xilan , Shao Mingzhe , Hao Zhimin , Sun Tao , Yu Haohan , Ge Huaiyun , Zuo Xintao , Zhang Yu
Published: December 2021

Superior high‐rate performance and ultralong cycling life have been constantly pursued for rechargeable sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). In this work, a facile strategy is employed to successfully synthesize porous CoxP hierarchical nanostructures supported on a flexible carbon fiber cloth (CoxP@CFC), constructing a robust architecture of ordered nanoarrays. Via such a unique design, porous and bare structures can thoroughly expose the electroactive surfaces to the electrolyte, which is favorable for ultrafast sodium‐ion storage. In addition, the CFC provides an interconnected 3D conductive network to ensure firm electrical connection of the electrode materials. Besides the inherent flexibility of the CFC, the integration of the hierarchical structures of CoxP with the CFC, as well as the strong synergistic effect between them, effectively help to buffer the mechanical stress caused by repeated sodiation/desodiation, thereby guaranteeing the structural integrity of the overall electrode. Consequently, CoxP@CFC as an anode shows a record‐high capacity of 279 mAh g−1 at 5.0 A g−1 with almost no capacity attenuation after 9000 cycles.
Double‐Network Ion Channels for High‐Performance Osmotic Power Generation
Authors: Li Xuejiang , Xiao Tianliang , Lu Bingxin , He Jianwei , Zhai Jin
Published: December 2021

Biomimetic nanochannels are desirable materials for high‐efficiency utilization of osmotic energy. However, the current power generation performance is limited by the low ion selectivity and ion flux. Here, novel nanochannels with double‐network structure based on cellulose nanofibers intercalated with carbon nanotubes are demonstrated. The relatively high cationic selectivity and ion flux are obtained due to the enlarged charge polarity and space for ion transport in the double‐network nanochannel, which is favorable for the osmotic power conversion. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the power density under 50‐fold NaCl (4.67 W m−2) outperforms most state‐of‐the‐art nanochannel membranes with the same test conditions. By applying the concentration gradient between artificial (50‐fold KCl) and real seawater/river water, a high power density of 5.53 and 6.51 W m−2 can be achieved respectively, which exceeds the standard output of the ion‐selective membrane for commercialization. The design of the biomimetic double‐network nanochannels provides a new platform for controllable ion transport and high‐performance power generation.
Watching Microwave‐Induced Microscopic Hot Spots via the Thermosensitive Fluorescence of Europium/Terbium Mixed‐Metal Organic Complexes
Authors: Zhao Zhenyu , Shen Xi , Li Hong , Liu Kai , Wu Haoyu , Li Xingang , Gao Xin
Published: December 2021

The hypothesis of microscopic hot spots is widely used to explain the unique microwave (MW) effect in materials science and chemical engineering, but it has not yet been directly measured. Herein we use Eu/Tb mixed‐metal organic complexes as nano thermometers to probe the intrinsic temperature of MW‐absorbing particles in MW fields based on the thermosensitive fluorescent spectra. According to the measurements of the temperature gradient at the solid/liquid interphase, we derive an MW‐irradiated energy transfer model to predict the extent of microscopic hot spots. The fluorescence results agree with the model predictions that the MW‐induced temperature gradient can be enlarged by increasing MW intensity, as well as the dielectric loss and size of particles. Conversely, the increase in the thermal conductivity and the dielectric loss of the liquid lowers the temperature gradient. This study enables control of MW‐assisted synthesis and MW‐responsive techniques.
Influence of surface morphology and surface free energy on the anticoagulant properties of nanocone‐shaped ZnO films
Authors: Hong Zhen , Yu Xingxing , Jiang Hanwen , Xue Mingshan , Peng Sibo , Luo Yidan , Yin Zuozhu , Xie Chan
Published: December 2021

The anticoagulant properties of materials are easily affected by the surface properties, which provide belief for designing and developing effective anticoagulant materials to achieve long‐term stable application of blood‐contacting implants and devices. Here, various nanocone‐shaped ZnO films were prepared by simple electrochemical deposition followed by hydrothermal method, and modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG10000, a hydrophilic substance). The influence of surface morphology and surface free energy on the anticoagulant properties of ZnO nanofilms was explored. Both hydrophilic (CA < 40°, surface modified with PEG10000) and superhydrophobic (CA > 150°, surface with rough needle‐like structure) ZnO nanofilms have good anticoagulant properties. Compared with the free energy of the film surface, the surface microstructure of ZnO nanofilms has a greater impact on the anticoagulant properties. After the ZnO nanofilms were modified with PEG, the contact model of water on the surface conforms to the Wenzel model instead of the Cassie model. The number of adhesive platelets was largely reduced, and the hemolysis rate is less than 5%, indicating the better blood compatibility. These characteristics are of special significance for the development of nanomaterials with good anticoagulation.
Managing Nonsurfacing Leaks: The Key to Real Water Loss Reduction
Authors: Gagliardo Paul
Published: December 2021

Key Takeaways

By pinpointing nonsurfacing leaks in a water system, utilities can realize permanent real water loss reduction and better manage limited resources.

Trend analysis used by utilities seeking to stem water leakage involved long‐term tracking of water supply, demand, and loss data, along with baseline system parameters.

Case studies show the benefits of using synthetic aperture radar data to proactively locate and repair nonsurfacing leaks as part of a system's water loss control strategy.
Fabrication, microstructure characterization, and degradation performance of electrospun mats based on poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3 hydroxyvalerate)/polyethylene glycol blend for potential tissue engineering
Authors: El‐Newehy Mohamed H. , Kim Hak Yong , Khattab Tawfik A. , Abdulhameed Meera Moydeen , El‐Naggar Mehrez E.
Published: December 2021

There have been strong demands for nanofibrous scaffolds fabricated by electrospinning for various fields due to their various advantages. Electrospun poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) fibre mats were prepared. The effects of processing variables as well as the inclusion of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) on the morphologies of generated fibres were investigated using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The average fibrous diameter was monitored in the range 400–3000 nm relying on the total content of PEG. The fluorescence cell imaging of electrospun mats was also explored. The results of cell viability demonstrated that skin fibroblast BJ‐1 cells showed different adhesions and growth rates for the three kinds of PHBV fibres. Electrospun PHBV mats with low amount of PEG offer a high‐quality medium for cell growth. Therefore, those mats exhibited high potential for soft tissue engineering, in particular wound healing.
22‐kD growth hormone‐induced nuclear GHR/STAT5/CyclinD1 signaling pathway plays an important role in promoting mesenchymal stem cell proliferation
Authors: Zheng Wei V. , Li Yaqin , Xu Yanwei , Zhou Tao , Li Dezhi , Cheng Xianyi , Xiong Yu , Wang Shaobin , Chen Zaizhong
Published: December 2021

Growth hormone (GH) exhibited the important biological activities in the mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs). However, the cellular behavior and properties of GH/GHR in MSCs remain unclear. A series of experiments (such as confocal laser scanning microscope [CLSM] and Western‐blot) were performed to systematically investigate the cellular behavior of GH/GHR in MSCs, and the results showed that GH/GHR not only internalized into the cytoplasm, but also transported into the cell nuclei of MSCs. Furthermore, we studied the molecular mechanism by which GH/GHR internalized into cell, and the results indicated that clathrin plays more important role in the process of GHR internalization. More importantly, it can be found that nuclear‐targeted GHR has the important biological functions in MSCs, which could promote MSCs proliferation. We further revealed the molecular mechanism by which nuclear‐localized GHR regulates MSCs proliferation, and found that nuclear‐targeted GHR enhanced the phosphorylation of STAT5, and the activated STAT5 initiates the transcription of CyclinD1, after which, the complex of CyclinD1 and CDK4 further phosphorylates Rb, and the activated Rb releases E2F1, the released E2F1 ultimately realizes the biological function of GH promoting cell proliferation. In short, in the current study，we used MSCs as a model to study the cellular behavior and properties of GH/GHR, and found that GH/GHR can internalize into cell cytoplasm and transport into the cell nuclei. Further work showed that nuclear GHR could drive cell proliferation via GHR/STAT5/CyclinD1 signaling pathway. The current research has laid an important foundation for further study on the regulatory effect of GH on MSCs.
Containment, compassion and clarity: Mixed‐methods research into supervision during doctoral research for psychotherapists and counselling psychologists
Authors: Bager‐Charleson Sofie , McBeath Alistair G.
Published: December 2021

This is a mixed‐methods enquiry into the experience of research supervision among supervisors and supervisees on PhD and professional programmes for psychotherapists and counselling psychologists. What makes constructive versus non‐constructive, unhelpful research supervision on doctoral programmes for therapists? What might supervisors learn from supervisees’ experiences of supervision, and vice versa? These questions permeated our online survey (N = 226) which generated 558 comments and 10 subsequent follow‐up interviews analysed by reflexive thematic analysis influenced by narrative research (narrative thematic inquiry). The findings showed, firstly, an unequivocal appreciation of research supervision. In the free text comments, supervisees stressed the value of research experience, empathy and containment. The interviewed supervisees valued trust and broad research knowledge with an exposure to optional approaches. Supervisors emphasised, in turn, the importance of supervisee agency and trust in their own thinking. One particularly illustrative example was when one supervisee described her supervisor as her ‘telescope’—helping her to navigate and see far—while a supervisor chose a ‘stethoscope’ to describe how he regarded it his role to support each student to connect ‘inwardly’ and build their own relationship with research. The qualitative findings thus suggest a gap in expectations. Common features were, however, also noted, in terms of construing constructive research supervision as ‘relational’ and based on ‘three Cs’, namely containment, compassion and clarity.
Primary central nervous system diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma masqueraded as Bing‐Neel syndrome: Steps in management and review of future directions
Authors: Delasos Lukas , Phachu Deep , Shetty Nishka , Sepulveda‐Ramos Melissa , Vredenburgh James
Published: December 2021

Bing‐Neel syndrome (BNS) remains a rare complication of Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia. Given the paucity of this disease, treatment guidelines are based on small clinical trials with limited participants. Here, we present a case of primary CNS diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma masqueraded as BNS that developed while on ibrutinib therapy.
Impact of COVID‐19 on Employment: Exploring the Perspectives of Job Loss and Mental Health of Individuals From Minimal‐Resource Communities
Authors: Wright Galaxina G. , Herbert Lea , Hilaire Breahannah , Campbell Laurie O.
Published: December 2021

This qualitative study examines the experiences of COVID‐19 job loss by individuals from minimal‐resource communities. Six participants were interviewed regarding their experience with becoming unemployed during the global pandemic. In general, participants described experiences that aligned with the core tenets of Gowan and Gatewood's (1997) model of response to job loss, as well as additional subthemes, including (a) internal support, (b) external support/resources, (c) survival, (d) mind‐set, (e) emotion regulation, and (f) mental health effects. Implications are provided to career practitioners with consideration of these experiences when working with unemployed individuals who have limited resources.
Disability and COVID‐19: Impact on Workers, Intersectionality With Race, and Inclusion Strategies
Authors: Jashinsky Terri L. , King Carrie L. , Kwiat Noel M. , Henry Brittney L. , Lockett‐Glover Alexis
Published: December 2021

This article discusses the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on workers with disabilities. Given that most employment‐related literature about COVID‐19 does not include people with disabilities, an in‐depth exploration of the impact of COVID‐19 on this population is warranted. Additionally, this article discusses the unique issues this population is facing during the pandemic, including the intersectionality of disability, race, and economic disadvantage. Suggestions for supporting people with disabilities in counseling and career‐related activities, both during the COVID‐19 pandemic and postpandemic, are provided.
Acting With Empathy: A Counseling and Applied Theatre Collaboration
Authors: Bayne Hannah B. , Pufahl Jeffrey , McNiece Zachary , Ataga Jasmaine
Published: December 2021

In advance of the practicum and internship experiences, counselor educators are challenged to provide realistic simulations of the counseling relationship for students. We describe a pilot collaboration between an introductory counseling and an applied theatre course to elucidate the mutual benefits of incorporating theatrical improvisation into the counseling curriculum.
Building a smart traffic light system based on Internet of Things using ‐calculus
Authors: Vu Tuan‐Anh , Pham‐Quoc Cuong
Published: December 2021

Traffic is very terrible in most big cities. These cities need many traffic police to control traffic congestion. They can change the duration of traffic lights to reduce levels of congestion of corners. However, the time changed by them is determined just only the feeling of themselves. Making decisions suitable for current congestion at that moment is not trivial. The resistant questions are how to define the logical time of traffic lights or how is an effect of this corner to the consecutive one. Maybe we need to increase the time of the green light at the next corner because of the traffic jam at this corner. The link between two corners is interaction inside concurrent processes. Besides, some exceptional cases also need to be handled, for instance, ambulances or fire trucks. The green light needs to be turned on when they come, and turn back the red light state later. This article proposes a tentative approach that uses context types, including locations, priorities of cars, velocity, and remaining time (the car comes to the corner) to determine traffic light periods. The context‐aware is applied in the infrastructure of the Internet of Things when transferring information to the corner. Maybe, in the future, the other systems such as Arduino, Raspberry pi, or other embedded systems will be joined in the designs as acting part (turn the traffic lights on/off ) and communicating role (connecting to the Internet via wifi) to control the duration of the traffic lights.
Laboratory Maintenance of the Chytrid Fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
Authors: Prostak Sarah M. , Fritz‐Laylin Lillian K.
Published: December 2021

The chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is a causative agent of chytridiomycosis, a skin disease associated with amphibian population declines around the world. Despite the major impact Bd is having on global ecosystems, much of Bd’s basic biology remains unstudied. In addition to revealing mechanisms driving the spread of chytridiomycosis, studying Bd can shed light on the evolution of key fungal traits because chytrid fungi, including Bd, diverged before the radiation of the Dikaryotic fungi (multicellular fungi and yeast). Studying Bd in the laboratory is, therefore, of growing interest to a wide range of scientists, ranging from herpetologists and disease ecologists to molecular, cell, and evolutionary biologists. This protocol describes how to maintain developmentally synchronized liquid cultures of Bd for use in the laboratory, how to grow Bd on solid media, as well as cryopreservation and revival of frozen stocks. © 2021 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Reviving cryopreserved Bd cultures

Basic Protocol 2: Establishing synchronized liquid cultures of Bd

Basic Protocol 3: Regular maintenance of synchronous Bd in liquid culture

Alternate Protocol 1: Regular maintenance of asynchronous Bd in liquid culture

Basic Protocol 4: Regular maintenance of synchronous Bd on solid medium

Alternate Protocol 2: Starting a culture on solid medium from a liquid culture

Basic Protocol 5: Cryopreservation of Bd
Influence of Temperature on Structural and Magnetic Properties of Gd3AlxFe5−xO12 (x = 2)
Authors: Sharma Anjori , Godara Sachin Kumar , Maji Pradip K. , Srivastava A. K.
Published: December 2021

This research work explores the effect of sintering temperature on morphology and magnetic properties of aluminum substituted gadolinium iron garnet Gd3AlxFe5−xO12 (x = 2). Sol–gel autocombustion method is adopted to prepare Gd3AlxFe5−xO12, and further sintered at 900, 1000, and 1100 °C. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirms the formation of garnet phase structure. Fourier transformation infrared ray further stands with result of XRD that reveals the presence of garnet phase. Field emission scanning microscope analysis shows the formation of average grain size 4, 6, and 13 nm for 900, 1000, and 1100 °C, respectively. Vibrating sample magnetometer results show that the coercivity decreases with increases in temperature, which indicates that this material can be used in switching devices. The calculated value of microwave operating frequency reveals that these materials can be used in ultrahigh‐frequency region.
Iron loss estimation of soft magnetic materials for power transformers considering hysteretic properties
Authors: Takeda Miho , Takahashi Yasuhito , Fujiwara Koji , Imamori Satoshi
Published: December 2021

This paper investigates an efficient iron loss calculation method for soft magnetic materials of power transformers. To accurately estimate iron losses in the materials such as structural steels and magnetic shielding, the magnetic field analysis taking account of the nonlinear magnetic properties is considered to be effective. In this paper, quasi‐DC magnetic properties of the soft magnetic materials are measured and the iron losses are calculated by using a three‐dimensional finite element method. Furthermore, the effect of considering hysteretic properties on the accuracy of the iron loss calculation is discussed based on a theoretical representation of eddy current loss in a conductive rectangular plate.
Prognostic impact of left atrial function in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in sinus rhythm vs. persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Schönbauer Robert , Kammerlander Andreas A. , Duca Franz , Aschauer Stefan , Koschutnik Matthias , Dona Carolina , Nitsche Christian , Loewe Christian , Hengstenberg Christian , Mascherbauer Julia
Published: December 2021

Aims

We sought to determine the prognostic impact of left atrial (LA) size and function in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in sinus rhythm (SR) vs. atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods and results

We enrolled consecutive HFpEF patients and assessed indexed LA volumes and emptying fractions (LA‐EF) on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, all patients underwent right and left heart catheterization, 6 min walk test, and N‐terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide evaluation. We prospectively followed patients and used Cox regression models to determine the association of LA size and function with a composite endpoint of heart failure hospitalization and cardiovascular death. A total of 188 patients (71% female patients, 70 ± 8 years old) were included of whom 92 (49%) were in persistent AF. Sixty‐five patients reached the combined endpoint during a follow‐up of 31 (9–57) months. Multivariate Cox regression adjusted for established risk factors revealed that LA‐EF was significantly associated with outcome in patients in SR [adjusted hazard ratio 2.14; 95% confidence interval (1.32–3.47) per 1‐SD decline, P = 0.002]. In persistent AF, no LA imaging parameter was related to outcome. By receiver operating characteristic and restricted cubic spline analyses, we identified an LA‐EF ≥ 40% as best indicator for favourable outcomes in patients with HFpEF and SR. Persistent AF carried a similar risk for adverse outcome compared with impaired LA‐EF (<40%) in SR (log‐rank, P = 0.340).

Conclusions

In HFpEF patients in SR, impaired LA‐EF is independently associated with worse cardiovascular outcome, which is similar to persistent AF. In persistent AF, LA parameters lose their prognostic ability.
Characteristics and influence on quality of life of new‐onset pain in critical COVID‐19 survivors
Authors: Ojeda Antonio , Calvo Andrea , Cuñat Tomas , Mellado‐Artigas Ricard , Comino‐Trinidad Oscar , Aliaga Jorge , Arias Marilyn , Ferrando Carlos , Martinez‐Pallí Graciela , Dürsteler Christian
Published: December 2021

Background

Pain is a clinical feature of COVID‐19, however, data about persistent pain after hospital discharge, especially among ICU survivors is scarce. The aim of this study was to explore the incidence and characteristics of new‐onset pain and its impact on Health‐Related Quality of Life (HRQoL), and to quantify the presence of mood disorders in critically ill COVID‐19 survivors.

Methods

This is a preliminary report of PAIN‐COVID trial (NCT04394169) presenting a descriptive analysis in critically ill COVID‐19 survivors, following in person interview 1 month after hospital discharge. Pain was assessed using the Brief Pain Inventory, the Douleur Neuropathique 4 questionnaire and the Pain Catastrophizing Scale. HRQoL was evaluated with the EQ 5D/5L, and mood disorders with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

Results

From 27 May to 19 July 2020, 203 patients were consecutively screened for eligibility, and 65 were included in this analysis. Of these, 50.8% patients reported new‐onset pain; 38.5% clinically significant pain (numerical rating score ≥3 for average pain intensity); 16.9% neuropathic pain; 4.6% pain catastrophizing thoughts, 44.6% pain in ≥2 body sites and 7.7% widespread pain. Patients with new‐onset pain had a worse EQ‐VAS and EQ index value (p < 0.001). Pain intensity was negatively correlated to both the former (Spearman ρ: −0.546, p < 0.001) and the latter (Spearman ρ: −0.387, p = 0.001). HADS anxiety and depression values equal or above eight were obtained in 10.8% and 7.7% of patients, respectively.

Conclusion

New‐onset pain in critically ill COVID‐19 survivors is frequent, and it is associated with a lower HRQoL.

Trial registration No.: NCT04394169. Registered 19 May 2020. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04394169.

Significance

A substantial proportion of severe COVID‐19 survivors may develop clinically significant persistent pain, post‐intensive care syndrome and chronic ICU‐related pain. Given the number of infections worldwide and the unprecedented size of the population of critical illness survivors, providing information about the incidence of new‐onset pain, its characteristics, and its influence on the patients’ quality of life might help establish and improve pain management strategies.
Generalization of the power‐law rating curve using hydrodynamic theory and Bayesian hierarchical modeling
Authors: Hrafnkelsson Birgir , Sigurdarson Helgi , Rögnvaldsson Sölvi , Jansson Axel Örn , Vias Rafael Daníel , Gardarsson Sigurdur M.
Published: December 2021

The power‐law rating curve has been used extensively in hydraulic practice and hydrology. It is given by , where is discharge, is water elevation, , , and are unknown parameters. We propose a novel extension of the power‐law rating curve, referred to as the generalized power‐law rating curve. It is constructed by linking the physics of open channel flow to a model of the form . The function is referred to as the power‐law exponent and it depends on the water elevation. The proposed model and the power‐law model are fitted within the framework of Bayesian hierarchical models. By exploring the properties of the proposed rating curve and its power‐law exponent, we find that cross‐sectional shapes that are likely to be found in nature are such that the power‐law exponent will usually be in the interval . This fact is utilized for the construction of prior densities for the model parameters. An efficient Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling scheme, that utilizes the lognormal distributional assumption at the data level and Gaussian assumption at the latent level, is proposed for the two models. The two statistical models were applied to four datasets. In the case of three datasets the generalized power‐law rating curve gave a better fit than the power‐law rating curve while in the fourth case the two models fitted equally well and the generalized power‐law rating curve mimicked the power‐law rating curve. We developed an R package, bdrc, for fitting the power‐law and generalized power‐law rating curve models. It is available on CRAN.
Effect of clover sprouts protein hydrolysates as an egg substitute on physicochemical and sensory properties of mayonnaise
Authors: Mirsadeghi Darabi Dina , Ariaii Peiman , Safari Reza , Ahmadi Mohammad
Published: December 2021

Mayonnaise is a semi‐solid oil‐in‐water emulsion that in addition to eggs other stabilizers and thickeners are used as emulsifiers for better stability. Although eggs are an important ingredient in the production of mayonnaise, the health problems associated with the use of eggs is increasing due to their high cholesterol content. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of clover sprout protein hydrolysates (CSPH) to replace eggs for the production mayonnaise. First, CSPH was produced using alcalase and flavourzyme enzyme, and in order to find the best enzyme, the degree of hydrolysis (DH) and protein recovery (PR) were determined. Then four mayonnaise treatments included, T1: control (egg 9%), T2: egg 6%+ CSPH 3%, T3: egg 3%+ CSPH 6%, T4: egg 0%+ CSPH 9% was prepared and the stability, viscosity, physicochemical, textural, and sensory properties of mayonnaise was investigated. The samples containing CSPH showed that CSPH had high essential amino acids, CSPH from alcalase enzyme had higher amounts of protein, DH, PR, and increasing hydrolysis time had a positive effect on these parameters (p < .05); therefore, CSPH from alcalase enzyme was used for the production mayonnaise. The stability, viscosity, firmness, adhesion of texture, and pH increased with increasing CSPH, while the brightness, acidity, and sensory score of the samples decreased (p < .05). In general, T3 had an acceptable quality in terms of the studied characteristics, but sensory score in T4 could not be confirmed. Hence, by replacing eggs with CSPH up to 6%, mayonnaise with appropriate physicochemical and sensory properties can be produced. Therefore, the formulation egg 3%+ CSPH 6% is an appropriate choice to produce mayonnaise for consumers who are on a restricted diet to eat foods containing eggs.
Hepatotoxicity of cantharidin is associated with the altered bile acid metabolism
Authors: Cheng Weina , Wang Yazhi , Liu Jingxian , Li Xiaofei , Yu Ming , Duan Cancan , Liu Liu , Zhang Jianyong
Published: December 2021

Cantharidin (CTD) is an effective antitumor agent. However, it exhibits significant hepatotoxicity, the mechanism of which remains unclear. In this study, biochemical and histopathological analyses complemented with ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐MS/MS)‐based targeted metabolomic analysis of bile acids (BAs) were employed to investigate CTD‐induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Sixteen male and female Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups: control and CTD (1.0 mg/kg) groups. Serum and liver samples were collected after 28 days of intervention. Biochemical, histopathological, and BA metabolomic analyses were performed for all samples. Further, the key biomarkers of CTD‐induced hepatotoxicity were identified via multivariate and metabolic pathway analyses. In addition, metabolite–gene–enzyme network and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses were used to identify the signaling pathways related to CTD‐induced hepatotoxicity. The results revealed significantly increased levels of biochemical indices (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total bile acid). Histopathological analysis revealed that the hepatocytes were damaged. Further, 20 endogenous BAs were quantitated via UHPLC‐MS/MS, and multivariate and metabolic pathway analyses of BAs revealed that hyocholic acid, cholic acid, and chenodeoxycholic acid were the key biomarkers of CTD‐induced hepatotoxicity. Meanwhile, primary and secondary BA biosynthesis and taurine and hypotaurine metabolism were found to be associated with the mechanism by which CTD induced hepatotoxicity in rats. This study provides useful insights for research on the mechanism of CTD‐induced hepatotoxicity.
Denosumab in Cementless Total Hip Arthroplasty: Multivariate Reanalysis of 3D Femoral Stem Migration and the Influence on Outliers
Authors: Finnilä Sami , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Aro Hannu T
Published: December 2021

In cementless total hip arthroplasty, adequate implant stability is necessary for the success of osseointegration and rapid clinical recovery. Postoperative femoral stem migration, measured by radiostereometric analysis (RSA), defines the initial stability achieved during surgical implantation. In a recent trial of 65 postmenopausal women randomized 1:1 denosumab:placebo, denosumab failed to reduce the initial migration of a cementless femoral stem despite the successful prevention of periprosthetic bone loss. The trial applied the current RSA standard, which examined stem migration on an axis‐by‐axis basis and did not consider more complex three‐dimensional (3D) migration. Therefore, we performed a reanalysis of the trial data using a multivariate hierarchical linear mixed model (LMM). As an additional limitation, the data included influential outliers. Women with normal bone mineral density exhibited significantly (p = 0.036) less stem subsidence compared with osteopenic and osteoporotic women. Denosumab significantly decreased the variance of stem migration in osteopenic and osteoporotic women. The mean magnitude of 3D stem migration did not differ between denosumab‐treated and placebo‐treated women (p = 0.820). After application of a common statistical definition for RSA outlier identification, there were eight (12%) outliers, six in the placebo group and two in the denosumab group (p = 0.149). After exclusion of the outliers, the repeated LMM analysis demonstrated a trending difference in 3D stem migration (p = 0.086), with a significant difference of z‐axis rotation (valgus‐varus tilt) of the femoral stem (p = 0.029). The observed effect size was small and without clinically important differences in postoperative recovery. Based on a Monte Carlo simulation with random‐generated 3D migration data, multivariate LMM showed greater statistical power than univariate analyses. The application of hierarchical LMM facilitated the analysis of implant migration as a factual 3D event. The observed trend in the lower number of RSA outliers in denosumab‐treated subjects warrants powered large‐scale trials. © 2021 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Impact of an evening pharmacist in a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit: a pilot study
Authors: Cree Michele L. , Singhal Nitesh , Rogan Sharna
Published: December 2021

Objective

To assess the impact of an “evening” Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) pharmacist role.

Method

A pilot program reviewed interventions recorded by an extended hours (until 7 pm) pharmacist in the PICU for the period 18 April until 16 June 2017. Clinical interventions documented via the in‐house pharmacy intervention records were reviewed and risk assessed by an independent multidisciplinary panel consisting of a nurse, physician, and a pharmacist. In addition, medication incidents recorded in the broader hospital clinical incident database were reviewed for the study period and also compared to an identical time period in 2016.

Results

Of 632 interventions recorded, 144 (23%) interventions were attributed to the evening pharmacist with 108 (90%) of the interventions occurring after 4:30 pm. The intervention categories consisted of 132 (92%) involving prescribing/transcribing and 12 (8%) classified under the administration and monitoring category. No pharmacist intervention was rated as major or extreme severity by any reviewer although the physician was more likely than the pharmacist or nurse to stratify interventions as minor or moderate as opposed to no risk. There was no difference in the hospital clinical incident database between the minimal harm risk medication rated incidents in 2016 compared to the same time period in 2017.

Conclusion

The evening clinical pharmacist identified that 9 of 10 patients seen after 4.30 pm required an intervention, clarification, or a change in medication therapy. Future directions to improve medication safety for critically ill children should include staffing of a PICU pharmacist for extended hours on both weekdays and weekends.
Pharmacists' experiences of consumer stockpiling: insights from COVID‐19
Authors: Cameron Eliza E. , Moss Simon A. , Keitaanpaa Samuel J. , Bushell Mary‐Jessimine A.
Published: December 2021

Background

Consumer stockpiling from pharmacies has been reported by media outlets throughout the course of COVID‐19.

Aim

This study evaluated pharmacists’ perceptions of consumer stockpiling from pharmacies, the impact of stockpiling, aggressive or hostile behaviour from customers and preparedness for COVID‐19 and future pandemics.

Method

A self‐administered survey was disseminated between September and November of 2020. The survey comprised four major sections: demographic information, experiences of consumer stockpiling, impact of consumer stockpiling and preparedness for COVID‐19 and future pandemics. Survey results were analysed in Microsoft Excel using descriptive statistics.

Results

Of the 56 responses analysed, most pharmacists observed consumer stockpiling of over‐the‐counter products (98.2%), schedule 2 and schedule 3 medications (92.8%) and prescription only medications (94.6%). The most commonly stockpiled items included face masks, hand‐sanitisers and wipes, alcohol wipes and antiseptic solutions, thermometers, paracetamol and salbutamol inhalers. Patients also requested the dispensing of several months’ supply of regular prescription medications. Customer aggression was observed by 53.6% of pharmacists, with 63% of pharmacists agreeing that hostile behaviour impeded their practice. Only 36.7% of pharmacists felt adequately prepared to cope with the challenges of COVID‐19.

Conclusion

Consumer stockpiling from pharmacies was observed throughout COVID‐19. Stockpiling as well as aggressive and hostile behaviour from customers affected pharmacists, their staff, business and other pharmacy customers. Additional studies are needed to investigate the severity of these issues and to inform policy changes to help mitigate consumer stockpiling and prepare the pharmacy profession for future pandemics.
Pharmacist‐assisted prescribing in an Australian hospital: a qualitative study of hospital medical officers’ and nursing staff perspectives
Authors: Tran Tim , Taylor Simone E. , George Johnson , Chan Vincent , Mitri Elise , Elliott Rohan A.
Published: December 2021

Background

Pharmacist‐assisted prescribing (also known as pharmacist charting) has been adopted widely across Australia. The perspectives of medical and nursing staff, however, is poorly understood.

Aim

To explore the perceived benefits and drawbacks of pharmacist‐assisted prescribing on admission and discharge, from the perspective of hospital medical officers (HMOs) and nurses.

Methods

Face‐to‐face, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with orthopaedic junior HMOs, the orthogeriatric HMO and nurses during a study evaluating pharmacist‐assisted prescribing in an orthopaedic unit. Participants were individually interviewed to explore the perceived impacts of pharmacist‐assisted prescribing on patient safety, workflow and HMO skill development. Interviews were audio‐recorded and verbatim transcriptions were analysed independently by two investigators using a simple thematic analysis.

Results

Interviews were conducted with six HMOs and six nurses. Emergent themes highlighted various factors which may affect the ability of HMOs to prescribe medications accurately and in a timely manner when there is no pharmacist assisting with prescribing, and the impact of pharmacist‐assisted prescribing on patient flow, safety and staff workload. Participants felt that having a pharmacist assist with prescribing improved patient safety by reducing prescribing errors and admission charting delays, and assisted with patient flow by reducing delays in discharging patients. Participants felt that pharmacist‐assisted prescribing reduced their workload. They noted a drawback was the potential to de‐skill HMOs, but felt this was outweighed by the benefits.

Conclusions

Hospital medical officers and nurses reported that pharmacist‐assisted prescribing had benefits on patient safety, patient flow and workload and that these outweigh the potential drawbacks of potentially de‐skilling junior HMOs.