bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A perspective on The Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering commemorating its 100th volume: 1929–2021
Authors: Mehrotra Anil K. , Soares João B. P. , Nandakumar Krishnaswamy , Carreau Pierre J. , Epstein Norman , Patience Gregory S.
Published: April 2022

To celebrate the 100th volume of The Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering (CJCE) in 2022, we briefly narrate its history and accomplishments. The CJCE's journey began in 1929 with the launch of the Canadian Journal of Research (CJR), which transformed to the Canadian Journal of Technology (CJT) in 1951, and finally to its present name in 1957 as the flagship publication of the Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering (CSChE). Using statistical data and keywords mined from Clarivate's Web of Science (WoS) together with manual searches of the articles published in the CJR and CJT, we describe how the scope of chemical engineering has continued to evolve, over the past 90+ years, in becoming ever more multifaceted. Chemical engineering encompasses traditional areas, such as polymers, thermodynamics, transport phenomena, transfer and separation processes, reactor design, energy conversion, process simulation and control, and environmental science; however, it has been expanding to include biotechnology, biomedical, food processing, novel composite materials, nanotechnology, renewable/green energy, CO2 capture and transformation, and numerical techniques like neural networks, artificial intelligence, discrete element methods, etc. Like all scientific journals, the growth and success of the CJCE are attributed to the commitment of its contributing authors. We recognize and celebrate the contributions of several prominent Canadian and international researchers, who published their articles in the CJCE. With a number of new initiatives launched in the last decade, we foresee continued improvements in the stature of the CJCE as a top‐ranked journal for publishing impactful research, leading to advancements in chemical sciences and engineering.
On the Durability of Protective Titania Coatings on High‐Voltage Spinel Cathodes
Authors: Østli Elise R. , Ebadi Mahsa , Tesfamhret Yonas , Mahmoodinia Mehdi , Lacey Matthew J. , Brandell Daniel , Svensson Ann Mari , Selbach Sverre M. , Wagner Nils P.
Published: April 2022

TiO2‐coating of LiNi0.5‐xMn1.5+xO4 (LNMO) by atomic layer deposition (ALD) has been studied as a strategy to stabilize the cathode/electrolyte interface and mitigate transition metal (TM) ion dissolution. The TiO2 coatings were found to be uniform, with thicknesses estimated to 0.2, 0.3, and 0.6 nm for the LNMO powders exposed to 5, 10, and 20 ALD cycles, respectively. While electrochemical characterization in half‐cells revealed little to no improvement in the capacity retention neither at 20 nor at 50 °C, improved capacity retention and coulombic efficiencies were demonstrated for the TiO2‐coated LNMO in LNMO||graphite full‐cells at 20 °C. This improvement in cycling stability could partly be attributed to thinner cathode electrolyte interphase on the TiO2‐coated samples. Additionally, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy revealed a thinner solid electrolyte interphase on the graphite electrode cycled against TiO2‐coated LNMO, indicating retardation of TM dissolution by the TiO2‐coating.
Current Advances in the Sustainable Conversion of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural into 2,5‐Furandicarboxylic Acid
Authors: Totaro Grazia , Sisti Laura , Marchese Paola , Colonna Martino , Romano Angela , Gioia Claudio , Vannini Micaela , Celli Annamaria
Published: April 2022

2,5‐Furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) is currently considered one of the most relevant bio‐sourced building blocks, representing a fully sustainable competitor for terephthalic acid as well as the main component in green polymers such as poly(ethylene 2,5‐furandicarboxylate) (PEF). The oxidation of biobased 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) represents the most straightforward approach to obtain FDCA, thus attracting the attention of both academia and industries, as testified by Avantium with the creation of a new plant expected to produce 5000 tons per year. Several approaches allow the oxidation of HMF to FDCA. Metal‐mediated homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, metal‐free catalysis, electrochemical approaches, light‐mediated procedures, as well as biocatalytic processes share the target to achieve FDCA in high yield and mild conditions. This Review aims to give an up‐to‐date overview of the current developments in the main synthetic pathways to obtain FDCA from HMF, with a specific focus on process sustainability.
Nonisolated high gain hybrid switched‐inductor DC‐DC converter with common switch grounding
Authors: Baba M. F. , Giridhar A. V. , Narasimharaju B. L.
Published: April 2022

This paper presents a methodology that integrates the hybrid switched inductor (HSL) and split duty ratio techniques to synthesize a high gain converter with common switch grounding (HSL‐CSG). The DC‐DC converter's high gain feature is required for microsource power processing in low voltage renewable energy systems. The amplification in voltage gain of the proposed converter is achieved without using transformer, common core coupled inductors, voltage multipliers, intermediate capacitors, and voltage lifting methods so that the topology is simple in construction and operation. Moreover, with a split duty ratio the proposed converter switches are less prone to current stress due to reduction in extreme conducting duty intervals. The topological derivation, operating principle, analysis of both continuous conduction mode (CCM), and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) are presented. The theoretical analysis is validated with the aid of a laboratory prototype.
Cross‐sectional reassessment after 4 years of clinical routine use of AQUIOS CL for absolute T cell quantitation in a university hospital
Authors: Lemoine Léa , Malcus Christophe , Poitevin‐Later Françoise , Venet Fabienne , Monneret Guillaume , Gossez Morgane
Published: April 2022

Background

We had previously reported appropriate performances of automated AQUIOS CL cytometer (Beckman Coulter) for regulatory approval of absolute T cell enumeration. However, after 4 years of routine use, we still observed recurrent histogram anomalies that may affect both absolute values and T cell subset percentages results. The objective of the current study was thus to perform a cross‐sectional evaluation of these graphical anomalies within a university hospital context, to assess their influence on results and ultimately to propose a standardized decision tree to circumvent graphical disturbances at the time of results validation.

Methods

Eight hundred and sixty‐two blood samples were prospectively analyzed on AQUIOS CL. Results were compared to (i) lymphocyte values from complete blood count; (ii) results from manual staining and analysis on Navios cytometer (Beckman Coulter); (iii) results after washing step and reacquisition on AQUIOS CL.

Results

Nearly 75% analyses did not show any graphical anomaly. 20% had single anomaly on “Lymphs (45)” or “Lymphs EV” regions influencing T cells percentages and requiring manual re‐gating of “CD3− capture” region. 5% showed concomitant “Lymphs EV” and “Lymphs (45)” anomalies influencing both T cell percentages and absolute counting and requiring additional staining and analysis on Navios. Finally, <1% presented with anomaly on “CD4/CD8” histogram or “CD3+ All” region, influencing both T cell percentages and absolute counting.

Conclusions

Around 25% AQUIOS CL results were flawed due to gating anomalies. In <5% cases, additional back‐up procedures should be undertaken to ensure results validity. A simple decision‐tree may help in guiding validation process.
Five‐year mortality of heart failure with preserved, mildly reduced, and reduced ejection fraction in a 4880 Chinese cohort
Authors: Chen Shiqun , Huang Zhidong , Liang Yan , Zhao Xiaoli , Aobuliksimu Xiemuxikaimaier , Wang Bo , He Yibo , Kang Yu , Huang Haozhang , Li Qiang , Yao Younan , Lu Xiaozhao , Qian Xiaoxian , Xie Xujing , Liu Jin , Liu Yong
Published: April 2022

Aims

Available evidence is incomplete and inconsistent in the outcomes of heart failure (HF) patients with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF), and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). There are also limited data on the proportions and long‐term prognosis among the three HF phenotypes in China. We aimed to characterize the 5 year prognosis in three HF phenotypes according to EF in a cohort of hospitalized HF patients undergoing coronary angiography in southern China.

Methods and results

Hospitalized patients with HF were enrolled from the Cardiorenal ImprovemeNt registry (CIN; ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04407936) between January 2007 and December 2014. HF phenotypes were defined as HFpEF (EF ≥ 50%), HFmrEF (EF 41–49%), and HFrEF (EF ≤ 40%). Kaplan–Meier and Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to examine differences in 5 year outcomes in HF patients with different phenotypes. A total of 4880 HF patients [mean age: 61.8 ± 10.3, male: 3156 (64.7%)] were included: 2768 (57%) had HFpEF, 1015 (21%) had HFmrEF, and 1097 (22%) had HFrEF. Patients with HFrEF were older than those with HFpEF (62.5 ± 10.6 vs. 61.3 ± 10.1, P < 0.001) and more likely to be male (78.0% vs. 55.9%, P < 0.001). With 5 year follow‐up through the end of December 2019, 1624 (27.6%) patients died. Controlling confounding variables, declined EF category was independently associated with increased 5 year mortality {HFrEF 25.2% vs. HFpEF 13.4%, adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 1.85 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.45 to 2.35]; HFmrEF 18.1% vs. HFpEF 13.4%, aHR: 1.40 [95% CI: 1.08 to 1.81]; HFrEF 25.2% vs. HFmrEF 18.1%, aHR: 1.32 [95% CI: 1.02 to 1.71]}.

Conclusions

In this Chinese cohort, patients with HFrEF account for less than a fourth of HF patients. One‐sixth individuals with HF died in 5 years. HFrEF was associated with a nearly two‐fold increased risk of 5 year mortality than HFpEF. Further studies are needed to prospectively evaluate the efficacy of improving treatment on outcomes in all three HF phenotypes.
Sacubitril/valsartan attenuates atrial structural remodelling in atrial fibrillation patients
Authors: Yang Liu , Zhang Min , Hao Zhiheng , Wang Nan , Zhang Min
Published: April 2022

Aims

Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) is now an established therapeutic option for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), but the long‐term recurrence rate of AF is still high. Sacubitril/valsartan (Sac/Val) is superior to valsartan in attenuating ventricular remodelling and improving clinical outcomes in heart failure patients, but whether this additional benefit exists in reversing atrial remodelling and reducing AF recurrence of RFCA‐treated AF patients remains uncovered.

Methods and results

Patients that had undergone RFCA were enrolled and randomly assigned 1:1 to valsartan (160 mg/day) or Sac/Val (200 mg/day) treatment group, in addition to other standard treatment of AF. Patients were followed up for 24 weeks. Echocardiography and ambulatory Holter monitoring for 24 h was performed at 24 weeks after RFCA. The primary end point was the change of atrial diameter from baseline to 24 weeks after RFCA. Second end points included the recurrence rate of AF, all‐cause hospitalization and all‐cause death. A total of 64 AF patients were enrolled, 32 of which received Sac/Val and 32 received valsartan treatment. There was no difference in the age (64.8 ± 9.8 vs. 63.7 ± 9.0, P = 0.634), gender (per cent of male: 59.4% vs. 50.0%, P = 0.616), heart rate (84.7 ± 4.1 b.p.m. vs. 80.9 ± 2.6 b.p.m., P = 0.428), systolic (127.5 ± 15.4 mmHg vs. 130.0 ± 17.8 mmHg, P = 0.549) or diastolic (81.7 ± 9.8 mmHg vs. 79.9 ± 12.6, P = 0.537) blood pressure upon admission between valsartan and Sac/Val treatment groups. The percentage of persistent AF was also comparable (43.8% vs. 53.1%, P = 0.617) in both treatment groups. Patients receiving Sac/Val treatment displayed significant decrease in the left atrial diameter (4.3 ± 0.5 cm to 3.8 ± 0.5 cm, P < 0.001), volume index (48.0 ± 6.4 mL/m2 to 41.7 ± 7.0 mL/m2, P < 0.001), and right atrial diameter (4.4 ± 0.8 cm to 3.9 ± 0.7 cm, P = 0.017) from baseline to 24 weeks after RFCA. This effect was not observed in valsartan treatment group. There was a numerical decrease in AF recurrence rate in the Sac/Val group compared with valsartan group (9.4% vs. 15.6%), although this difference did not reach a statistical significance (P = 0.708). No difference in all‐cause hospitalization rate (6.3% in each group) or all‐cause death rate (0% in each group) was observed.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that Sac/Val is superior to valsartan in attenuating atrial structural remodelling in catheter ablation‐treated AF patients.
Simultaneous Determination of Gallic Acid and Folic Acid in Fruit Juice Samples Using Square Wave Voltammetry at Electrochemically Pretreated Carbon Paste Electrode
Authors: Tesfaye Gizaw , Negash Negussie , Hailu Tesfu , Tessema Merid
Published: April 2022

An efficient sensor was developed for the simultaneous determination of gallic and folic acid in juice samples using an electrochemically pretreated carbon paste electrode. The electrode was characterized by CV and EIS. The electrochemical behavior of GA and FA was evaluated by CV and SWV. The electrode exhibited high electrocatalytic activity towards GA and FA due to high surface area. Under the optimized condition, linear plots in the ranges of 0.08–13 μM and 0.1 to 15 μM were obtained for GA and FA, respectively. The proposed method was successful for the simultaneous determination of GA and FA in juice samples with satisfactory recovery.
Temporal evolution of headwall erosion rates derived from cosmogenic nuclide concentrations in the medial moraines of Glacier d'Otemma, Switzerland
Authors: Wetterauer Katharina , Scherler Dirk , Anderson Leif S. , Wittmann Hella
Published: April 2022

Climate change affects the stability and erosion of high‐alpine rock walls above glaciers (headwalls) that deliver debris to glacier surfaces. Since supraglacial debris in the ablation zone alters the melt behaviour of the underlying ice, the responses of debris‐covered glaciers and of headwalls to climate change may be coupled. In this study, we analyse the beryllium‐10 (10Be)‐cosmogenic nuclide concentration history of glacial headwalls delivering debris to the Glacier d'Otemma in Switzerland. By systematic downglacier‐profile‐sampling of two parallel medial moraines, we assess changes in headwall erosion through time for small, well‐defined debris source areas. We compute apparent headwall erosion rates from10Be concentrations ([10Be]), measured in 15 amalgamated medial moraine debris samples. To estimate both the additional10Be production during glacial debris transport and the age of our samples we combine our field‐based data with a simple model that simulates downglacier debris trajectories. Furthermore, we evaluate additional grain size fractions for eight samples to test for stochastic mass wasting effects on [10Be]. Our results indicate that [10Be] along the medial moraines vary systematically with time and consistently for different grain sizes. [10Be] are higher for older debris, closer to the glacier terminus, and lower for younger debris, closer to the glacier head. Computed apparent headwall erosion rates vary between ~0.6 and 10.8 mm yr−1, increasing over a maximum time span of ~200 years towards the present. As ice cover retreats, newly exposed headwall surfaces may become susceptible to enhanced weathering and erosion, expand to lower elevations, and contribute formerly shielded bedrock of likely different [10Be]. Hence, we suggest that recently lower [10Be] reflect the deglaciation of the debris source areas since the end of the Little Ice Age.
Position‐sensitivity security transmission with orbital angular momentum directional modulation based on frequency diverse array
Authors: Zhu Changju , Song Maozhong , Dang Xiaoyu , Zhu Qiuming
Published: April 2022

The position‐sensitivity security communication scheme with orbital angular momentum (OAM) directional modulation (DM) beam pattern generated by the uniform circular frequency diverse array (FDA) is proposed. The transmitter employs FDA antennas to generate dual‐mode range‐dependent OAM beam and the direction information of OAM beam is modulated into the signal. The designed signal with random frequency offset excites the element of the uniform circular FDA to generate orthogonal OAM signals in the desired position. In the undesired position, the intensity pattern and the phase front of the radio beam vary randomly with the digital sequence transmission, which can make eavesdropping difficult. Since the modulation waveform has position‐dependent, the signal can be purposely distorted in undesired positions to provide transmission security for the legitimate user. The composite dual‐mode OAM signal makes it more difficult for eavesdroppers to demodulate correct messages. The receiver with a single antenna employs the phase compensation and helical phase factor to restore the correct digital signal in the desired position. Numerical results show that the space position‐sensitivity OAM‐DM technology based on FDA offers a security transmission scheme.
Brain co‐delivery of first‐line chemotherapy drug and epigenetic bromodomain inhibitor for multidimensional enhanced synergistic glioblastoma therapy
Authors: Liu Yanjie , Wang Wendie , Zhang Dongya , Sun Yajing , Li Fangzhou , Zheng Meng , Lovejoy David B. , Zou Yan , Shi Bingyang
Published: April 2022

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a central nervous system tumor with poor prognosis due to the rapid development of resistance to mono chemotherapy and poor brain targeted delivery. Chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) combines chemotherapy drugs with activators of innate immunity that hold great promise for GBM synergistic therapy. Herein, we chose temozolomide, TMZ, and the epigenetic bromodomain inhibitor, OTX015, and further co‐encapsulated them within our well‐established erythrocyte membrane camouflaged nanoparticle to yield ApoE peptide decorated biomimetic nanomedicine (ABNM@TMZ/OTX). Our nanoplatform successfully addressed the limitations in brain‐targeted drug co‐delivery, and simultaneously achieved multidimensional enhanced GBM synergistic CIT. In mice bearing orthotopic GL261 GBM, treatment with ABNM@TMZ/OTX resulted in marked tumor inhibition and greatly extended survival time with little side effects. The pronounced GBM treatment efficacy can be ascribed to three key factors: (i) improved nanoparticle‐mediated GBM targeting delivery of therapeutic agents by greatly enhanced blood circulation time and blood–brain barrier penetration; (ii) inhibited cellular DNA repair and enhanced TMZ sensitivity to tumor cells; (iii) enhanced anti‐tumor immune responses by inducing immunogenic cell death and inhibiting PD‐1/PD‐L1 conjugation leading to enhanced expression of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. The study validated a biomimetic nanomedicine to yield a potential new treatment for GBM.
Dietary total antioxidant capacity and its association with renal function and kidney stones: Results of a RaNCD cohort study
Authors: Moludi Jalal , Tandorost Arash , Kamari Negin , Abdollahzad Hadi , Pakzad Reza , Najafi Farid , Pasdar Yahya
Published: April 2022

There is evidence to support the hypothesis that dietary antioxidants have shown protective effects against chronic kidney disease (CKD). The purpose of this study was to determine the association between the dietary total antioxidant capacity (DTAC), renal function, and development of CKD and kidney stones in Ravansar Non‐Communicable Diseases (RaNCD) cohort study, Kermanshah, Iran. This cross‐sectional study was conducted using the recruitment baseline data of the RaNCD cohort study on 9,777 individuals aged 35–65 years. Food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was performed to assess diet. DTAC scores were calculated using the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) of selected foods. Renal function was assessed by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), blood urea nitrogen, and serum creatinine concentration. Prevalent CKD was based on an eGFR less than <60 ml/min per 1.73 m2. Incidence of kidney stones was also assessed by self‐reporting. Out of 9,777 participants, 1,747 subjects (eGFR: 18.50 ml/min per 1.73 m2; 95% confidence interval (CI): 17.72–19.30) had CKD. The mean DTAC score in this study was 0.24 ± 0.16 µmol TE/100 g (micromole of Trolox Equivalents). We showed a significant trend for eGFR across quartiles of DTAC, i.e., participants in the fourth quartile had a higher glomerular filtration rate (GFR) than those in the first one (DTAC Q4 vs Q1 = 82.20 versus 72.20 ml/min per 1.73 m2, p < .001). Another finding is that high DTAC scores were not associated with having kidney stones after adjusting for confounders. We revealed that higher DTAC scores have positive effects on the renal function. Interestingly, our findings showed that a high DTAC score had nonsignificant correlation with odds of kidney stones.
The potential efficacy and mechanism of bendamustine in entra‐nodal NK/T cell lymphoma
Authors: Gao Yuyang , Feng Xiaoyan , Song Wenting , Li Hongwen , Shi Cunzhen , Jin Mengyuan , Li Zhaoming , Zhang Lei , Zhang Mingzhi
Published: April 2022

Bendamustine has been shown to have anti‐tumor activities in hematological malignancies, but the role of bendamustine in natural killer (NK)/T cell lymphoma (NKTCL) treatment is unclear. Our study has shown that bendamustine had potent growth‐inhibitory and apoptosis‐inducing effects on NKTCL cells. Interestingly, we noticed that the combination of either gemcitabine or etoposide results in additive or synergistic cytotoxicity. Bendamustine induced mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis in concentration‐ and time‐dependent manners in NKTCL cells, shown as down‐regulation of Bcl‐2 and activation of cleavage of caspases 3, 7, 9 and poly adenosinediphosphate‐ribose polymerase (PARP). Bendamustine arrested NKTCL cells in G2/M phase, with downregulation of expression of cyclin B1 and upregulation of expression of p‐cdc2, p‐cdc25c and p‐P53. Furthermore, we confirmed that bendamustine activated DNA damage response (DDR) directly or through Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated Protein (ATM)/Chk2 and ATR/Chk1 pathway and increased the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in NKTCL cells, which caused G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis. Bendamustine also inhibited phosphorylation of transcriptional factor STAT3, contributing to cell apoptosis and proliferation inhibition. Finally, we verified the effect of bendamustine on NKTCL cells in vivo. It showed that bendamustine dramatically inhibited the growth of the subcutaneous tumor, with no obvious impact on mice weight. These findings demonstrate that bendamustine activates DDR pathway, induces the accumulation of intracellularROS level as well as inhibition of STAT3, leading to cell apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest in NKTCL cells, which indicates that bendamustine dramatically suppressed NKTCL both in vitro and in vivo and provides a potential therapeutic strategy in the treatment of NK/T lymphoma.
Mainstreaming resilience analytics: 10 years after the Fukushima disaster
Authors: Galaitsi Stephanie , Kurth Margaret , Fries Steffenie , Linkov Igor
Published: April 2022

Multiple events over the last decade, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrate a global lack of preparedness for low probability but high consequence events. Following the evaluation of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, these authors called for a change from a risk-oriented approach to a resilience-focused framework for managing such disruptions. Over the past five years, the field of resilience analytics has conceptualized further resilience frameworks within the context of infrastructure development; however, the practice of resilience planning is still lagging behind the theories developed in the literature. In this article, we consider the lessons learned from the Fukushima nuclear accident through the lens of newly developed resilience analytics and the ongoing COVID-19-related challenges. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022;18:1551–1554. © 2022 SETAC. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.

KEY POINTS

The field of resilience analytics has conceptualized assessment frameworks for the context of infrastructure development; however, the practice of resilience planning is still lagging behind the theories developed in the literature. Resilience-by-design and resilience-by- intervention are two strategies that can help in achieving resilience in complex systems.
Effectiveness and safety of a microcrystalline tyrosine‐adjuvanted Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus allergoid immunotherapy in adult patients with allergic asthma and rhinitis: A real‐life prospective observational study
Authors: Padró Clara , Gutiérrez Diego , Moreno Francisco , Parra Antonio , Rial Manuel J. , Lleonart Ramón , Torán‐Barona Carla , Justicia José L. , Roger Albert
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Although clinical trials have shown the efficacy and safety of allergen‐specific immunotherapy (AIT) in the treatment of allergic asthma, there is a need for real‐life studies. We aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of a microcrystalline tyrosine‐adjuvanted Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus allergoid (Acarovac Plus®) in patients with house dust mite (HDM)‐induced allergic asthma in a real‐life study.

Methods

A subanalysis of a multicenter, prospective, observational, real‐life study. Patients with rhinitis and allergic asthma caused by HDMs were assessed before AIT with Acarovac Plus® and at 6 and 12 months after this treatment. Assessment parameters were percentage of days with asthma symptoms, percentage of days on asthma medication, classification of asthma according to Spanish guidelines for the management of asthma, asthma‐related quality of life (quality of life in adults with asthma questionnaire [QLAAQ]), perception of symptoms (visual analog scale [VAS]), and treatment satisfaction (treatment satisfaction questionnaire for medication [TSQM]). Safety was assessed by the number and severity of adverse reactions.

Results

This subanalysis included 55 patients. Treatment with Acarovac Plus® showed significant differences in the analyzed variables when the baseline visit was compared with the 12‐month visit: reduction of the mean (SD) percentage of days with asthma symptoms (23.9 [9.2] vs. 5.1 [12.8]; p = .002), of the mean [SD] percentage of days on asthma medication (67.6 [42.9] vs. 45.1 [46.8]; p = .002), and of the percentage of patients with persistent asthma (78.2% vs. 38.9%; p = .009). Acarovac Plus® significantly improved asthma‐related quality of life, as shown by a decrease of 1.39 points in QLAAQ score at 12 months (p < .001), and in the subjective perception of symptoms on the VAS (−3.50, p < .0001). Patients showed high treatment satisfaction according to the TSQM, and it was well tolerated. No serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

Acarovac Plus® was effective and safe for the treatment of patients with HDM‐induced allergic asthma in a real‐life study.
SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant: Why global communities should take it seriously?
Authors: Rahmani Shayan , Rezaei Nima
Published: April 2022

Introduction

In November 26th, 2021 a new strain of SARS‐CoV‐2 was designated by the World Health Organization as a variant of concern and named Omicron. The news broadcasted a global wave of panic and anxiety while many, like 2 years ago, were making themselves ready for the holiday season. After almost a month of its designation, countries from all 6 continents have been reported Omicron from their genomic sequences. This triggered an international alarm about a new era in the Covid‐19 pandemic, where despite the vast amount of vaccinations, a surge in new cases and hospitalizations are reported from all over the world.

Methods

Scientific literature published from November 26, 2021 to March 21, 2022 have been searched and retrieved by using “SARS‐COV‐2”, “Omicron”, “B.1.1.529”, “Covid‐19”, and “global community” keywords from “PubMed”, "Web o “Google Scholar”, and “MedRxiv” databases.

Results

Omicron have been evolved to spread faster than previous variants of concern, but it infects people lesser than other variants, Delta for example. Omicron can also escape vaccine‐induced immunity more than previous SARS‐CoV‐2 variants.

Discussion

Despite possible lower lethal risks than previous strains, Omicron may provide populations with a higher community transmission and a higher hospitalization load, which potentially overwhelm already exhausted health care systems. Therefore, we need to get used to the “New Normal” and maintain health recommendations to help decrease spreading of the virus and buy more time for the scientists to dive deeper into potential ways of tackling Covid‐19, more than ever.
Evaluation of the reading level of commonly used medication‐related patient education sources
Authors: Perez Emily J. , Covert Kelly L. , Lewis Paul O.
Published: April 2022

Introduction

To improve comprehension of medical care, the Joint Commission recommends that patient education materials (PEMS) be written at a fifth‐grade reading level or below.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the compliance of commonly used tertiary drug references to Joint Commission standards.

Methods

PEMs for the top 100 most prescribed medications in 2017 were obtained from commonly used drug information tertiary references (Lexi‐comp patient drug information, Micromedex Care Notes, Micromedex Med Essential Fact Sheets, Medline Plus, and Drugs.com) to evaluate readability. The grade reading level of each medication‐related PEM was evaluated using the Flesch‐Kincaid Grade Level test and compared with a one‐way analysis of variance using correlated samples and Tukey's post‐hoc test for significance between groups.

Results

The mean grade reading levels of Lexi‐comp, Micromedex Care Notes, Micromedex Med Essential Fact Sheets, Medline Plus, and Drugs.com were 4.2, 7.5, 7.8, 9.3, and 10.4, respectively. Lexi‐comp achieved a reading level at or below fifth grade for 99% of medications while Micromedex Med Essential Fact sheets was the next highest at 33%. No other reference contained drug information at or below a fifth‐grade reading level.

Conclusion

Lexi‐comp patient drug information consistently met the Joint Commission recommendation for medical information at or below a fifth‐grade reading level, whereas Micromedex Med Essential Fact Sheets met this recommendation approximately one‐third of the time. When providing drug information resources to patients, health‐care providers should be diligent in selecting sources that meet the Joint Commission recommendations.
A brief history of pharmacy specialization in the United States
Authors: Erstad Brian L. , Webb Charles Edwin
Published: April 2022

The origins of pharmacy specialization has its beginning in the efforts of Harvey A. K. Whitney, Sr. through his leadership in establishing progressive hospital pharmacy services and hospital‐focused programs and policies within the nation's professional pharmacy organizations. Later, Donald Francke spoke of specialization in the hospital pharmacy setting as a natural outgrowth of practice activities that required more time and specialized expertise. A broader national discussion and eventual codification of specialty recognition and attendant certification within pharmacy began in 1971 with a policy statement approved by the APhA House of Delegates that led to the creation of a Task Force on Specialties in Pharmacy followed by the creation of the Board of Pharmaceutical Specialties (BPS). Given that specialization in any health profession is primarily a function of the reality of ever‐increasing scientific and technological developments, debate regarding the need, types, and value of specialization in pharmacy seem destined to be driven not by intra‐ or inter‐professional debates within pharmacy, but by the needs, expectations, and values of patients and health care systems.
Formulary management challenges and opportunities: 2020 and beyond ‐ an opinion paper of the drug information practice and research network of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Authors: Johnson Steven T. , Gosser Rena A. , Kier Karen L. , Anderson Keri C. , Douglas Janine S. , Heindel Gregory A. , Majerczyk Daniel , Manian Radha , Thornby Krisy‐Ann
Published: April 2022

Formulary management systems in hospitals and health‐systems serve to ensure that medications are rigorously evaluated for efficacy, safety, and value. The increased complexity of these systems, along with the broadening of items for formulary inclusion, poses unique challenges and opportunities for the development of innovative formulary management processes. Pharmacists are challenged to evaluate different types of medications that are not all small molecule entities as well as deal with medication shortages that can impact patient care. The authors review unique formulary aspects of biosimilars, gene therapy, rare disease treatments, outpatient therapies, and formulary‐related challenges/opportunities with drug shortages. Core strategies for formulary management and drug shortage mitigation techniques in closed formulary settings are discussed. This information is intended to guide formulary decision‐makers and other clinicians to effectively manage health‐system formularies in 2020 and beyond.
Assessing the knowledge, perceptions, and practices of primary care clinicians toward pharmacogenetics
Authors: Johengen Emily K. , Ward Kristen M. , Coe Antoinette B. , Pasternak Amy L.
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Pharmacogenetics (PGx) testing is becoming increasingly available to patients and clinicians, but investigations of PGx testing in primary care and the pharmacist's role in educating clinicians have been limited.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to: (a) determine the utilization of PGx testing in primary care clinics, (b) identify how clinicians document and act on PGx test results, and (c) determine clinician interest in PGx education or consultation from pharmacists.

Methods

A 16‐item survey was distributed via email. Eligible participants included physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and pharmacists who work in family medicine, general medicine, geriatric, or pediatric primary care clinics at one academic medical center. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the frequency of PGx tests ordered in primary care clinics, provider comfort with PGx test interpretation, documentation practices, and interest in PGx education or consultation from pharmacists.

Results

The overall survey response rate was 15.8% (n = 55). Most respondents were physicians (84%). Nearly 40% of respondents reported having a patient bring PGx test results to a visit, while only 9% reported ordering a PGx test. Documentation practices were variable, and response to PGx results was most commonly no change in therapy (52%). Only two (3.6%) respondents agreed with the statement, “I feel confident in my ability to interpret PGx test results,” and the majority reported interest in PGx education. Eighty percent of respondents reported they would be likely or very likely to consult a PGx‐trained pharmacist for help interpreting PGx results.

Discussion

Clinicians in this survey were more likely to have patients bring in results than to order PGx tests, did not feel confident in result interpretation, and expressed interest in working with pharmacists for PGx test interpretation. This research can help guide the development of PGx‐focused pharmacy services and education for clinicians who are encountering PGx testing in their practice.
Forging ahead from adaptations of teaching during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Perspectives from multiple pharmacy programs
Authors: Higbea Ashley , Bald Elizabeth , Isaacs Alex N. , Richter Sara K. , Stamm Pamela L. , Kassel Lynn E.
Published: April 2022

The introduction of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic in the Spring semester of 2020 sent many educational units, elementary to higher education, scrambling to move content to remote learning. Within a professional program, this push highlighted gaps or potential pitfalls in preparing students to enter the health care field. This article highlights lessons learned in remote teaching during the pandemic from six unique colleges and schools of pharmacy: Auburn University, Drake University, Purdue University, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis, Texas Tech University Health Science Center, and University of Utah. These lessons learned pertain to remote content delivery, student engagement, skill development, and assessments within the classroom and experiential settings. Within the classroom setting, the challenges, literature, personal experiences, and key recommendations for lecture‐based learning, group‐based learning, lab‐based learning, and assessments are described. Similarly, for the experiential setting, the challenges, literature, personal experiences, and key recommendations are also described, including training learners for remote patient care as well as examples for remote experiential activities and assessment. Forging ahead, there will be a continued need for future research for remote learning within pharmacy education.
Increasing access to care for rural veterans through intensive hands‐on‐training of advanced practice pharmacists
Authors: Ourth Heather L. , Jorgenson Terri L. , Moore Tera , McFarland M. Shawn , Nelson Jordan , Morreale Anthony P.
Published: April 2022

Introduction

The “Increasing Access to Care for Rural Veterans by leveraging Clinical Pharmacy Specialist (CPS) Providers,” known as the CPS Rural Veteran Access Initiative (CRVA), focused on providing access to comprehensive medication management (CMM) for rural Veterans in the areas of primary care, mental health, and pain management. Clinical pharmacy boot camps trained CPS to accomplish this goal.

Objectives

The objectives of the boot camps were to address training needs ensuring consistency and quality for the provision of CMM for the CRVA CPS to increase access to care.

Methods

A needs assessment survey was administered to determine curriculum content. Participants completed pre‐ and post‐boot camp knowledge assessments for the topics taught in the curriculum. An analysis was performed comparing the results before and after the training program for participants completing one pre‐ and one post‐boot camp survey.

Results

There were 87 primary care boot camp attendees and 52 mental health and pain attendees included in the analysis. For primary care, 13 courses (59%) saw ≥50% growth in the number of participants deeming themselves to have a working knowledge or better from pre to post boot camp. For mental health/pain, seven courses (29%) saw ≥50% growth in the number of participants deeming themselves to have a working knowledge or better from pre to post. Direct patient care encounter tracking 6 months pre‐ and post‐training showed an average monthly mean encounter total increase for the primary care group from 134.4 pre‐training to 146.1 post‐training (P = .08) and for the mental health/pain group from 124.5 pre‐training to 136.1 post‐training (P = .32).

Conclusion

Based on the results, this program was successful in accomplishing its goals of improving the participants' knowledge, especially in areas lacking practice experience. These results were found across participants in both programs. Successes seen in these programs are now serving as models for CPS training in the VA for the future.
The pharmacy residency program guide to Twitter
Authors: Webb Andrew J. , Margetak Danielle , Schramm Garrett E. , Mordino Jason
Published: April 2022

Background

Twitter has emerged as a powerful networking and educational tool within the health care community. The instantaneous and casual nature of Twitter allows for easy access to a near limitless pool of medical professionals and the opportunity to share intra‐ and interprofessional knowledge. Beyond individual development, Twitter has the potential to positively impact pharmacy residency programs in a multitude of ways.

Objective

This article serves as a practical guide for pharmacy residency programs to implement and maintain a successful Twitter account.

Recommendations

At the program level, a Twitter account creates an official voice and brand while simultaneously providing detail and perspective beyond what a residency website may offer. Additionally, it allows for dynamic ground‐level engagement with prospective residency candidates, current residents, and preceptors which is mutually beneficial to the program audience. In the age of virtual recruitment, successfully utilizing digital tools to meet candidates where they are is essential for attracting the right candidate for the program. Implementation of a successful social media strategy has potential barriers that include garnering buy‐in from departmental leadership, operationalizing a social media team, and maintaining engagement momentum.

Conclusion

Pharmacy residency programs should consider starting an official Twitter account.
Examination of critical care pharmacist work activities and burnout
Authors: Smith Susan E. , Slaughter Aubrey A. , Butler Sydney A. , Buckley Mitchell S. , MacLaren Rob , Newsome Andrea Sikora
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Critical care pharmacy services have progressed since their origination in the 1970s and have been supported by a position paper that categorized these services as fundamental (eg, provides drug information to the critical care team), desirable (eg, responds to resuscitation events in the hospital), and optimal (eg, publishes clinical research in peer‐reviewed journals). Burnout syndrome is a serious problem with far‐reaching consequences and may be heightened by the demanding nature of critical care. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between pharmacy services provided (fundamental, desirable, optimal) and the incidence of burnout syndrome among critical care pharmacists.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was distributed via email to critical care pharmacists through a professional association listserv and included three areas of assessment: position and institution‐based characteristics, activities performed, and burnout. The primary outcome was the number of activities performed in each category and was compared between respondents who did and did not experience burnout using the Mann‐Whitney U test. Logistic regression was performed to characterize the relationship between activities performed and burnout.

Results

In total, 211 pharmacists (14.5%) completed the survey. Sixty percent (n = 128) experienced burnout and performed a median of 13 (interquartile range [IQR] 7‐15) fundamental (of 18 assessed), 11 (IQR 4‐13) desirable (of 16 assessed), and 6 (IQR 5‐8) optimal (of 12 assessed) activities. In logistic regression, performing desirable activities was associated with higher risk of burnout while performing optimal activities was associated with lower risk of burnout.

Conclusions

Over half of critical care pharmacists experienced burnout. The performance of optimal activities was associated with reduced burnout. It is possible that higher level, higher yield activities increase personal engagement and decrease burnout.
Medication‐related problems in chronic inflammatory conditions: A pharmacy claims and electronic health record analysis
Authors: Chang Susan , Stebbins Marilyn , Witt Edward A. , Kirkham Heather , Santos Troy , Cocohoba Jennifer
Published: April 2022

Background

Specialty medications have transformed management of chronic inflammatory conditions. There is a critical need to elucidate underlying barriers and medication‐related problems (MRPs) that might contribute to specialty medication non‐adherence in order to minimize disease progression, treatment failure, and increased healthcare utilization.

Objective

To characterize MRPs for patients taking specialty medications for chronic inflammatory conditions and identify factors associated with experiencing MRPs.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of patients prescribed specialty medications for chronic inflammatory conditions at a single, regional, tertiary medical center, who filled their prescriptions at Walgreens pharmacy between 1/1/2014 and 12/31/2016. Electronic health records were manually reviewed to find documented medication problems. MRPs were then analyzed to identify common themes. Differences in baseline characteristics for patients with or without documented MRPs were compared using Fisher's exact test for categorical variables and Mann Whitney U test for continuous variables. Student's t test was used to determine associations between 12‐month proportion of days covered (PDC) and the presence of any MRP.

Results

Of 272 patients who were prescribed specialty medications for chronic inflammatory conditions, 98 patients (36%) experienced a total of 131 documented MRPs. Four major themes associated with these problems emerged: prescription processing issues (31%), insurance problems (24%), medication use problems (22%), and side effects (18%). Patients were less likely to have a documented MRP if they were African American (P = .032) and patients with MRPs had a greater proportion of missed clinic visits. Mean 12‐month PDC (n = 167) was 0.61 and was not significantly associated with having a documented MRP (P = .7).

Conclusion

Use of specialty medications for patients with chronic inflammatory conditions continues to increase. Gaining a greater understanding of the MRPs that affect specialty medication use for chronic inflammatory conditions can help identify practice innovations and policies to improve patient care.
A multicenter retrospective review of antibiotic prescribing patterns for treatment of urinary tract infections in the primary care setting
Authors: Mullakary Jenny , Visintainer Sarah , Tucci Mitchell , Dionne Brandon , Conley Michael P. , Reid Debra J. , Matta Thomas M. , Bartucca Macayla A. , Bouwmeester Carla J.
Published: April 2022

Introduction

It has been estimated that nearly 50% of antibiotics are inappropriately prescribed in the outpatient setting. Despite much discussion surrounding the importance of reducing these occurrences, the literature is limited in describing antibiotic prescribing patterns for urinary tract infections (UTIs) in the primary care setting.

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate if antibiotics for UTIs in primary care settings are prescribed concordantly with evidence‐based guidelines.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study reviewed female patients 18 years and older treated in a primary care setting with a diagnosis of uncomplicated UTI. Treatment was analyzed for appropriateness of empiric antibiotic choice, duration of therapy, and dose. This information was then compared with treatment recommendations for UTIs per the 2010 Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) guidelines. Antibiotic prescribing patterns were also analyzed in relation to the 2016 United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) safety warning for fluoroquinolones.

Results

A total of 388 UTI encounters over the 42‐month study period were included for analysis. Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim was the most frequently prescribed antibiotic (50.0%) followed by nitrofurantoin (26.3%) and fluoroquinolones (16.8%). A total of 71.6% of antibiotic agents selected for treatment of UTIs were not first line agents per the 2010 IDSA guidelines, which increased to 92.3% when considering dosing, duration, and renal adjustments. Culture and susceptibility results led to changes in empiric therapy, yet only 38.1% of the changes were considered guideline concordant. Linear regression comparing pre‐ and post‐FDA warnings indicated a 15% reduction in the proportion of fluoroquinolone prescriptions (P < .001).

Conclusion

A large disparity exists between antibiotic prescribing patterns and IDSA guideline recommendations. By identifying divergences from standards of practice, pharmacists can justify the need to integrate stewardship programs into primary care settings in order to optimize patient care.