bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘We will never give up’: a qualitative study of ethical challenges Syrian health workers face in situations of extreme violence
Authors: Singh Namrita S. , Redman Brittany , Broussard Grant , DeCamp Matthew , Rayes Diana , Ho Lara S. , Robinson W. Courtland , Sankari Abdulghani , Maziak Wasim , Rubenstein Leonard
Published: July 2021

Active conflict settings constitute challenging operating environments for humanitarian health organisations and workers. An emerging feature of some conflicts is direct violence against health workers, facilities, and patients. Since the start of the war in 2011, Syria has endured extreme and deliberate violent attacks on health facilities and workers. This paper reports on the findings from a qualitative study that examined the lived experiences of Syrian humanitarian health workers facing extreme ethical challenges and coping with moral distress. In‐depth interviews were carried out with 58 front‐line health workers in north‐western and southern Syria. Participants described a number of ethical and operational challenges experienced while providing services in extreme conditions, as well as strategies used to deal with them. The complex intersection of personal and organisational challenges is considered and findings are linked to key ethical and humanitarian principles. Both practical recommendations and action steps are provided to guide humanitarian health organisations.
Efficacy and safety of 28‐day treatment with oral insulin (ORMD‐0801) in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Eldor Roy , Neutel Joel , Homer Kenneth , Kidron Miriam
Published: July 2021

Aim

To assess the safety and efficacy of oral insulin (ORMD‐0801) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and Methods

After a 2‐week washout of other medications, adult metformin‐treated patients with T2D were randomized to receive placebo or 16 or 24 mg ORMD‐0801, once daily, at bedtime, for 28 days. The mean change from baseline weighted mean night‐time glucose levels was determined from 2 nights of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) recordings during the placebo run‐in and last week of treatment.

Results

In total, 188 patients (HbA1c: 7.82% ± 0.88% [placebo] and 8.08% ± 1.11% [pooled ORMD‐0801 group]) were enrolled. In the placebo group, mean night‐time CGM increased from baseline by 13.7 ± 26.1 mg/dL, whereas the increase was significantly smaller in the pooled ORMD‐0801 group (1.7 ± 23.5 mg/dL, P = .0120). Glycaemic control variables (24‐hour, fasting and daytime CGM glucose) also displayed smaller increases with ORMD‐0801 versus placebo. Change from baseline HbA1c was −0.01% in the pooled ORMD‐0801 group versus +0.20% in the placebo group (P = .0149). ORMD‐0801 was well tolerated, with similar adverse event and hypoglycaemia rates as placebo.

Conclusions

In patients with T2D, bedtime ORMD‐0801 curbed increases in night‐time glycaemia, 24‐hour glycaemia and HbA1c, without increasing the risk of hypoglycaemia or safety events compared with the control arm.
Differences in the virulence of Sphaeropsis sapinea strains originating from Scots pine and non‐pine hosts
Authors: Bußkamp Johanna , Blumenstein Kathrin , Terhonen Eeva , Langer Gitta Jutta
Published: July 2021

The virulence of 15 endophytic and pathogenic Sphaeropsis sapinea strains was tested towards Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris). Two‐thirds of the strains had been isolated from Scots pines with varying health status: five isolates originated from healthy tissue (endophytic fungal stage) and five from diseased tissue (pathogenic stage). One‐third of the strains were isolated from symptomatic tissues of non‐pine hosts: black alder (Alnus glutinosa), European beech (Fagus sylvatica), European larch (Larix decidua), Norway spruce (Picea abies) and Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). The S. sapinea strain isolated from black alder is the first proof that this fungus can form associations with alder species. On four‐year‐old P. sylvestris, one isolate per plant was inoculated on three side‐shoots of seven plants in a greenhouse (21 inoculations/strain). Differences in necrosis size caused by the isolates were measured 55 days after inoculation. The pathogenic S. sapinea isolates originating from diseased Scots pine and from non‐pine hosts were found to cause significantly longer necroses when compared to the endophytic isolates of S. sapinea from symptomless pines.
Treatment outcomes for young people at clinical high risk for psychosis: Data from a specialized clinic
Authors: West Michelle L. , Parrish Emma M. , Friedman‐Yakoobian Michelle
Published: July 2021

Aim

Treatment for youth exhibiting signs of clinical high risk for psychosis (CHR‐P) has been emphasized in recent years, but there is need for a greater understanding of the course of symptoms and functioning across treatment. The aim of this study is to describe 10 years of naturalistic treatment outcomes in a real‐world, specialized CHR‐P outpatient clinic, the Center for Early Detection, Assessment, and Response to Risk (CEDAR) Clinic.

Methods

The CEDAR Clinic routinely collects client outcomes data for the purposes of program development, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and characterizing the clinic population. Clients are assessed at baseline, every 6 months (for up to 2 years depending on duration of treatment), and at the end of treatment. A series of mixed‐effects models were performed to analyse change over time in outcomes (symptoms and functioning) between baseline and follow‐up time points.

Results

Over time, clients' (N = 123) positive (F = 11.8, p < .001) and negative (F = 4.91, p = .002) symptoms declined relative to their baseline. Social functioning improved over time (F = 2.50, p = .049), as did depression (F = 8.60, p < .001) and hopelessness (F = 4.21, p = .004). Clients' total CEDAR treatment hours ranged across type of treatment service, but the amount of treatment clients received was not associated with any clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

Over the course of treatment at this real‐world, specialized CHR‐P program, clients exhibited significant improvement in clinical outcomes and did not significantly decline in any measured outcomes. We discuss this study in the context of current understanding and guidelines for specialized coordinated specialty care treatment for CHR‐P.
Multinational descriptive analysis of the real‐world burden of headache using the Migraine Buddy application
Authors: Goadsby Peter J. , Constantin Luminita , Ebel‐Bitoun Caty , Igracki Turudic Iva , Hitier Simon , Amand‐Bourdon Caroline , Stewart Andrew
Published: July 2021

Background and purpose

A large proportion of headache sufferers do not routinely seek medical care. App‐based technologies permit the collection of real‐world data over time and between countries that can help assess true burden of headache. This study used a mobile phone application to collect information on the real‐world burden of self‐diagnosed headache and to describe its impact on daily life in headache sufferers who do not routinely seek medical advice.

Methods

This retrospective, non‐interventional, cross‐sectional study analysed self‐reported data from users of the ‘Migraine Buddy’ app. The main objective was to describe self‐reported characteristics of headache and migraine (triggers, duration, frequency), treatment patterns and impact on daily activity in headache sufferers from Australia, Brazil, France, Germany and Japan. Data including demographics, self‐diagnosed episode type (headache/migraine), duration, potential triggers and impact on daily activity are reported. All analyses were exploratory and performed per country.

Results

Self‐reported data were collected from 60,474 users between August 2016 and August 2018. Approximately 90% of users were females; >60% were aged 24–45 years. Over one‐third of users reported having two to five episodes of headache or migraine per month; impact included impaired concentration, being slower and missing work or social activities. Variations across countries were observed; within countries, episode characteristics were very similar for self‐diagnosed headache versus migraine.

Conclusions

Headache tracking was used to describe the experience, impact and self‐management approaches of migraine and headache sufferers in a real‐world setting. Headache disorders present a range of important issues for patients that deserve more study and reinforce the need for better approaches to management.
Diabetes mellitus contributes to higher cerebrospinal fluid tau levels selectively in Alzheimer's disease patients with the APOE4 genotype
Authors: Motta Caterina , Assogna Martina , Bonomi Chiara Giuseppina , Mascolo Alfredo Paolo , De Lucia Vincenzo , Semprini Roberta , Mercuri Nicola Biagio , Koch Giacomo , Martorana Alessandro
Published: July 2021

Background and purpose

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is considered a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD) and shares some pathological pathways, such as activation of amyloid cascade and tau phosphorylation. The aim of the present study was to investigate to what extent DM could impact on neurodegeneration within the AD continuum, using β amyloid (A: Aβ1‐42) and phosphorylated tau (T: p‐tau) biomarkers to discriminate patients by Alzheimer's pathological change (A+/T–) and AD (A+/T+), according to the National Institute on Aging and Alzheimer's Association classification. In addition, we aimed to evaluate whether APOE genotype interacts with tau protein and glucose metabolism dysfunction to affect the pathological process.

Methods

For this retrospective observational study, 1350 patients were recruited. The patients underwent a complete clinical investigation, neuropsychological assessment, lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers analysis and APOE genotyping.

Results

A total of 607 patients fulfilled the clinical criteria of mild cognitive impairment or early dementia. In A+T– patients (n = 350), DM did not influence CSF biomarker levels, while among A+T+ patients (n = 257) those with DM showed increased total tau (t‐tau) levels compared to non‐DM patients (DM: 919.4 ± 444 vs. non‐DM: 773.1 ± 348.2; p = 0.04), but similar p‐tau (p = 0.72) and Aβ1‐42 levels (p = 0.83). Furthermore, multivariable regression analyses showed a significant association between DM and t‐tau CSF levels, adjusting for age and sex, in APOE E4+ carriers (coefficient 222.83, 95% confidence interval 47.49–398.1; p = 0.01), but not in APOE E4‐ (p = 0.53).

Conclusions

The present study shows a clear dependency of CSF t‐tau levels on DM for APOE E4+ AD patients, suggesting important differences between APOE E4‐related and non‐related disease, with key implications for AD pathophysiology and treatment.
Repair potential of a bulk‐fill resin composite: Effect of different surface‐treatment protocols
Authors: Akgül Sinem , Kedici Alp Cemile , Bala Oya
Published: July 2021

This study evaluated the effect of different surface‐treatment protocols on the repair bond strength of a bulk‐fill resin composite. One‐hundred and forty specimens (Filtek Bulk‐fill) were created (5 mm diameter, 4 mm depth) and allocated to one of 14 groups according to surface treatment (no treatment, tribochemical silica coating, sandblasting with aluminum oxide), adhesive application (no adhesive, total‐etch, self‐etch), and type of repair resin (bulk‐fill, universal resin) (n = 10 per group). Twenty specimens were selected for measuring the cohesive strengths of non‐aged resin composites and used as reference. Other specimens were thermocycled. Shear bond‐strength testing was performed. Data were analyzed using linear regression of bond strength as a function of the surface treatment, type of adhesive and whether or not adhesive was applied, and type of repair resin. The failure modes were analyzed using logistic regression of failure mode (cohesive failure vs. other types, or adhesive failure vs. other types) on the type of surface treatment, adhesive application, and repair resin used. Surface treatment, regardless of whether this was tribochemical silica coating (mean difference = 5.44 MPa; 95% CI = 4.77–6.11) or sandblasting with aluminum oxide (mean difference = 4.22 MPa; 95% CI = 3.55–4.88), resulted in higher shear bond strength than no treatment. Application of adhesive resulted in a substantial and statistically significant decrease of shear bond strength (by 8.77 MPa, for self‐etch and by 7.26 MPa for total‐etch) relative to no adhesive. Conversely, the type of repair resin did not influence the shear bond strength to any appreciable extent.
Automatic detection of interictal ripples on scalp EEG to evaluate the effect and prognosis of ACTH therapy in patients with infantile spasms
Authors: Wang Wei , Li Hua , Yan Jiaqing , Zhang Herui , Li Xiaonan , Zheng Su , Wang Jiaoyang , Xing Yue , Cheng Lipeng , Li Donghong , Lai Huanling , Qu Junda , Loh Horace H. , Fang Fang , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: July 2021

Objective

We aimed to explore the feasibility of using scalp‐recorded high‐frequency oscillations (HFOs) to evaluate the efficacy and prognosis of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) treatment in patients with infantile spasms.

Methods

Thirty‐nine children with infantile spasms were enrolled and divided into seizure‐free and non–seizure‐free groups after ACTH treatment. Patients who were seizure‐free were further divided into relapse and non‐relapse subgroups based on the observations made during a 6‐month follow‐up period. Scalp ripples were detected and compared during the interictal periods before and after 2 weeks of treatment.

Results

After ACTH treatment, the number and channels of ripples were significantly lower, whereas the percentage decrease in the number, spectral power, and channels of ripples was significantly higher in the seizure‐free group than in the non–seizure‐free group. In addition, the relapse subgroup showed higher number and spectral power and wider distribution of ripples than did the non‐relapse subgroup. Changes in HFOs in terms of number, spectral power, and channel of ripples were closely related to the severity of epilepsy and can indicate disease susceptibility.

Significance

Scalp HFOs can be used as an effective biomarker to monitor the effect and evaluate the prognosis of ACTH therapy in patients with infantile spasms.
Landscape attributes explain salmonid ecological neighbourhoods across a complex river network
Authors: Walther Eric J. , Zimmerman Mara S. , Westley Peter A. H.
Published: July 2021

Defining population neighbourhood boundaries provides a critical spatial framework for understanding ecological processes and informing species‐specific conservation and restoration planning. The population neighbourhood boundary demarcates the total quantity of available habitat across life stages where specific ecological processes (e.g., breeding, foraging, migration) occur for all individuals within a population. For mobile species within dendritic freshwater networks, the population neighbourhood boundary can be defined by the upper limit of occurrence (ULO) of an individual within a population.

We sought to define contemporary neighbourhood boundaries across a complex river network in southwestern Washington State, U.S.A. by: (1) identifying ULOs for three anadromous fish (Oncorhynchusspp.); and (2) quantifying the relationship of the ULO with landscape attributes and local features for these species of profound social and ecological importance.

Extensive field surveys covering 669 river km across 2 years documented the ULOs for coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch), steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), and chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) as well as any local features, such as natural barriers, that influenced the ULOs. Generalised linear mixed models quantified the relationships between the ULOs and landscape attributes derived from remote sensing data.

We identified the ULO for 115 coho salmon terminal streams, 97 steelhead streams, and 57 chum salmon streams. Natural barriers determined the ULO in just 5%–16% of the terminal streams, depending on species. Landscape attributes associated with the ULOs varied among species; however, drainage area, elevation, and geology were important landscape predictors for all species. Models for each species had good to excellent predictive performance (percent correct classification: 78%–89%; AUC: 0.87–0.96).

We demonstrated that large‐scale landscape attributes can accurately and consistently detect species‐specific differences in population neighbourhoods across broad and diverse habitats. In comparison, local scale features (e.g., natural barriers) played a minor role in determining the neighbourhood boundaries in our study catchment. The modelled relationships between landscape attributes and the population neighbourhood provide a framework to guide conservation planning and predict benefits of habitat reconnections.
Homogenization and miniaturization of habitat structure in temperate marine forests
Authors: Pessarrodona Albert , Filbee‐Dexter Karen , Alcoverro Teresa , Boada Jordi , Feehan Colette J. , Fredriksen Stein , Grace Sean P. , Nakamura Yohei , Narvaez Carla A. , Norderhaug Kjell Magnus , Wernberg Thomas
Published: July 2021

Humans are rapidly transforming the structural configuration of the planet's ecosystems, but these changes and their ecological consequences remain poorly quantified in underwater habitats. Here, we show that the loss of forest‐forming seaweeds and the rise of ground‐covering ‘turfs’ across four continents consistently resulted in the miniaturization of underwater habitat structure, with seascapes converging towards flattened habitats with smaller habitable spaces. Globally, turf seascapes occupied a smaller architectural trait space and were structurally more similar across regions than marine forests, evidencing habitat homogenization. Surprisingly, such habitat convergence occurred despite turf seascapes consisting of vastly different species richness and with different taxa providing habitat architecture, as well as across disparate drivers of marine forest decline. Turf seascapes contained high sediment loads, with the miniaturization of habitat across 100s of km in mid‐Western Australia resulting in reefs retaining an additional ~242 million tons of sediment (four orders of magnitude more than the sediments delivered fluvially annually). Together, this work demonstrates that the replacement of marine forests by turfs is a generalizable phenomenon that has profound consequences for the ecology of temperate reefs.
Genetic and physiological traits conferring tolerance to ocean acidification in mesophotic corals
Authors: Scucchia Federica , Malik Assaf , Putnam Hollie M. , Mass Tali
Published: July 2021

The integrity of coral reefs worldwide is jeopardized by ocean acidification (OA). Most studies conducted so far have focused on the vulnerability to OA of corals inhabiting shallow reefs while nothing is currently known about the response of mesophotic scleractinian corals. In this study, we assessed the susceptibility to OA of corals, together with their algal partners, inhabiting a wide depth range. We exposed fragments of the depth generalist coral Stylophora pistillata collected from either 5 or 45 m to simulated future OA conditions, and assessed key molecular, physiological and photosynthetic processes influenced by the lowered pH. Our comparative analysis reveals that mesophotic and shallow S. pistillata corals are genetically distinct and possess different symbiont types. Under the exposure to acidification conditions, we observed a 50% drop of metabolic rate in shallow corals, whereas mesophotic corals were able to maintain unaltered metabolic rates. Overall, our gene expression and physiological analyses show that mesophotic corals possess a greater capacity to cope with the effects of OA compared to their shallow counterparts. Such capability stems from physiological characteristics (i.e., biomass and lipids energetics), a greater capacity to regulate cellular acid–base parameters, and a higher baseline expression of cell adhesion and extracellular matrix genes. Moreover, our gene expression analysis suggests that the enhanced symbiont photochemical efficiency under high pCO2 levels could prevent acidosis of the host cells and it could support a greater translocation of photosynthates, increasing the energy pool available to the host. With this work, we provide new insights on the response to OA of corals living at mesophotic depths. Our investigation discloses key genetic and physiological traits underlying the potential for corals to cope with future OA conditions.
Clinical profiles of people with dementia exhibiting with neuropsychiatric symptoms admitted to mental hospitals: A multicenter prospective survey in Japan
Authors: Hozumi Asami , Tagai Kenji , Shinagawa Shunichiro , Kamimura Naoto , Shigenobu Kazue , Kashibayashi Tetsuo , Azuma Shingo , Yoshiyama Kenji , Hashimoto Mamoru , Ikeda Manabu , Shigeta Masahiro , Kazui Hiroaki
Published: July 2021

Aims

Patients with severe behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are often admitted to mental hospitals, while, inpatient care could also lead to prolonged hospital stay. The present study aims to survey clinical profiles of patients who required inpatient treatment for BPSD, and then establish the criteria for introducing inpatient treatment through assessment by certified psychiatrists.

Methods

We performed a prospective survey about clinical characteristics of people with dementia who required treatment of BPSD at 12 mental medical institutions. All patients were assessed by certified psychiatrists to determine the optimal treatment settings: outpatient or inpatient. The multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to specify factors contributed to the judgement of clinicians. Subsequently, the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was conducted to explore a score derived from the Neuropsychiatric Inventory to divide patients into outpatient or inpatient groups.

Results

The present study included 386 patients, of which 242 were admitted to mental hospitals. BPSD were classified into four domains, and aggressive BPSD was significantly associated with assessment for inpatient treatment; the adjusted odds ratio was approximately 2 regardless of dementia severity. Furthermore, the composite score of agitation, irritability and aberrant behavior showed the highest area under the curve value (=0.706), which differentiated inpatients from outpatients with a sensitivity of 76% and a specificity of 54%.

Conclusions

Aggressive BPSD was the risk factor for inpatient treatment. The composite score of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory subdomain‐related aggressive BPSD could be a screening tool to introduce inpatient treatment for BPSD. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 825–829.
Telehealth as a new care delivery model: The headache provider experience
Authors: Minen Mia T. , Szperka Christina L. , Kaplan Kayla , Ehrlich Annika , Riggins Nina , Rizzoli Paul , Strauss Lauren Doyle
Published: July 2021

Objective

To assess telehealth practice for headache visits in the United States.

Background

The rapid roll out of telehealth during the COVID‐19 pandemic impacted headache specialists.

Methods

American Headache Society (AHS) members were emailed an anonymous survey (9/9/20–10/12/20) to complete if they had logged ≥2 months or 50+ headache visits via telehealth.

Results

Out of 1348 members, 225 (16.7%) responded. Most were female (59.8%; 113/189). Median age was 47 (interquartile range [IQR] 37–57) (N = 154). The majority were MD/DOs (83.7%; 159/190) or NP/PAs (14.7%; 28/190), and most (65.1%; 123/189) were in academia. Years in practice were 0–3: 28; 4–10: 58; 11–20: 42; 20+: 61. Median number of telehealth visits was 120 (IQR 77.5–250) in the prior 3 months. Respondents were “comfortable/very comfortable” treating via telehealth (a) new patient with a chief complaint of headache (median, IQR 4 [3–5]); (b) follow‐up for migraine (median, IQR 5 [5–5]); (c) follow‐up for secondary headache (median, IQR 4 [3–4]). About half (51.1%; 97/190) offer urgent telehealth. Beyond being unable to perform procedures, top barriers were conducting parts of the neurologic exam (157/189), absence of vital signs (117/189), and socioeconomic/technologic barriers (91/189). Top positive attributes were patient convenience (185/190), reducing patient travel stress (172/190), patient cost reduction (151/190), flexibility with personal matters (128/190), patient comfort at home (114/190), and patient medications nearby (103/190). Only 21.3% (33/155) of providers said telehealth visit length differed from in‐person visits, and 55.3% (105/190) believe that the no‐show rate improved. On a 1–5 Likert scale, providers were “interested”/“very interested” in digitally prescribing headache apps (median 4, IQR 3–5) and “interested”/“very interested” in remotely monitoring patient symptoms (median 4, IQR 3–5).

Conclusions

Respondents were comfortable treating patients with migraine via telehealth. They note positive attributes for patients and how access may be improved. Technology innovations (remote vital signs, digitally prescribing headache apps) and remote symptom monitoring are areas of interest and warrant future research.
Gene polymorphism association studies in cluster headache: A field synopsis and systematic meta‐analyses
Authors: Cargnin Sarah , Sances Grazia , Shin Jae Il , Tassorelli Cristina , Terrazzino Salvatore
Published: July 2021

Background

A plethora of studies have attempted to identify genetic determinants of disease susceptibility and treatment response of patients with cluster headache (CH), but results are often conflicting, and no comprehensive overview with a quantitative summary of the evidence in this field is available.

Methods

A systematic search of relevant publications was performed without any language restrictions on PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Cochrane Library, and OpenGrey, up to December 2020. A standardized data extraction form was used to collect relevant data from each included study. Meta‐analyses were conducted for gene polymorphisms investigated in at least two studies and the Bayesian false discovery probability (BFDP) test was applied to the pooled odds ratios (ORs) to assess the credibility of the observed associations.

Results

Among the 27 articles identified by the systematic review, 17 studies evaluating 12 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were included in the quantitative data analysis. The pooled results showed no significant association with CH risk of 10 SNPs, including five SNPs of HCRTR2 (rs2653349, rs2653342, rs3122156, rs10498801, and rs3800539), two SNPs of ADH4 (rs1800759 and rs1126671), CLOCK rs1801260, and two SNPs (rs1006417 and ADCYAP1R1 rs12668955) previously identified by a genome‐wide association study (GWAS). Conversely, the pooled results revealed the association of the HCRTR2 rs9357855 A allele with a higher risk of CH (A vs. G, OR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.04–1.72, p = 0.026), and of GNB3 rs5443 with a higher response rate of patients with CH to triptan drugs (CT+TT vs. CC, OR: 1.96, 95% CI: 1.04–3.72, p = 0.038). However, assuming a prior probability of 0.001, the respective BFDP values being higher than 0.8 (BFDPrs9357855 = 0.998; BFDPrs5443 = 0.998) revealed lack of noteworthy results.

Conclusions

Well‐designed GWASs and large replication studies are still needed to identify reliable genetic variants of disease susceptibility and treatment response of patients with CH.
Therapeutic benefits of natural oils along with permeation enhancing activity
Authors: Amra Kesrin , Momin Munira , Desai Neha , Khan Fateh
Published: July 2021

The skin is the largest organ of the integumentary system with a multifunctional purpose to protect the body from heat and microbes, regulate body temperature, and act as a sensory organ. A topical dosage form applied on the skin will have to cross the stratum corneum, which would then allow the dosage form to traverse the subsequent layers of the skin. The drug with poor solubility and short half‐life would serve as an ideal candidate for its delivery via the transdermal route. This review reports the role of natural oils in enhancing the permeation of drugs through skin as they possess different features like natural origin, favorable penetration enhancement, and partitioning action in the skin. Chemical penetration enhancers have been used widely but are associated with toxicities. Thus, more research should be channelized in the area of extraction of oils from natural sources, along with their active constituents, which can serve as therapeutic alternatives to various disorders and diseases. Natural oils are obtained from leaves, fruits, flowers, seeds, bark, and roots, which have a therapeutic potential as well as penetration enhancing activity. The demerits of oral drug delivery include degradation of drugs in the gastrointestinal tract, addition of taste masking, and coating of tablets, which can be overcome by delivering the drug via the transdermal route. Natural oil contains lipids, flavonoids, and terpenes, which play a significant role in anti‐inflammatory and penetration enhancing activity.
Current status and influencing factors of fatigue in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A cross‐sectional study in China
Authors: Gao Lei , Sun Yao , Pan Li , Li Yafang , Yuan Jiqing , Cui Xuejun , Shi Baoxin
Published: July 2021

Aim

This study aimed to explore the level and influencing factors of fatigue in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted in 243 patients with rheumatoid arthritis from April 2016 to March 2017. The Bristol Rheumatoid Arthritis Fatigue Multi‐Dimensional Questionnaire, Arthritis Self‐Efficacy Scale‐8, Visual Analogue Scale for pain, physical function subscale of Short Form 36‐Item Health Survey, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Perceived Social Support Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and a self‐designed demographic and disease‐related information questionnaire were used to collect the data. Stepwise linear multiple regression was used to clarify the impact of statistically significant variables (P < 0.05) in the independent sample t test, one‐way ANOVA and correlation analysis on the level of fatigue.

Results

Stepwise linear multiple regression analyses showed that disease activity, self‐efficacy, physical function, pain, depression, duration of morning stiffness and anxiety were major factors influencing fatigue in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, which explained 59.5% of the total variance.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated a moderate level of fatigue in Chinese patients with rheumatoid arthritis. In clinical practice, nurses should explore individualized intervention programmes based on related predictors of fatigue to help patients relieve fatigue.
Effect of nano‐Al2O3 on the microstructure and properties of NbB2‐NbC composite coatings prepared by plasma spraying
Authors: Wang Xing‐yu , Yang Wei , Shao Yu‐xuan , Yang Yong , Yang Zhen‐long , Wang Yan‐wei , Cui Yu‐hang , Ma Yu‐duo , Sun Wen‐wei , Li Wei
Published: July 2021

NbB2‐NbC composite coatings with or without Al2O3 addition had been fabricated via the plasma spraying method, respectively. The effect of nano‐Al2O3 on the microstructure and properties (microhardness, toughness and wear resistance) of sprayed NbB2‐NbC coating was explored. It was found that NbB2‐NbC coating exhibited loose microstructure, many pores and no obvious lamellar structure. NbB2‐NbC‐Al2O3 composite coating showed denser microstructure, fewer pores, and more obvious lamellar structure than NbB2‐NbC composite coating. NbB2‐NbC‐Al2O3 composite coating had high microhardness, good toughness, and excellent wear resistance, which could mainly attribute to the addition of nano‐Al2O3 leading the composite powder to melt more fully.
Women in biogeography
Authors: Meynard Christine N. , Bernardi Giacomo , Fraser Ceridwen , Masters Judith , Riginos Cynthia , Sanmartin Isabel , Tolley Krystal A. , Dawson Michael N
Published: July 2021

Despite increasing awareness of issues affecting inclusivity, equity and diversity, change has been slow in science and academia, and gender disparities remain significant. Biogeography has not escaped this pattern. Here, we present a virtual issue compiling some of the most cited papers led by women that have been published in the Journal of Biogeography since 2009 in an effort to equalize visibility of women's influential work. We summarize leading gender disparities and their potential underlying causes, and present our motivation and methodology in compiling this issue. We further provide a blog, website and social media links to highlight the research of the authors whose work is showcased here. Highlighting influential contributions by women biogeographers is a small step towards equalizing visibility across genders. We hope that this virtual issue will also contribute in some way to creating a greater sense of belonging for women biogeographers.
Determination of volatile substances in olives and their effect on reproduction of the olive fruit fly
Authors: Kokkari Anastasia I. , Milonas Panagiotis G. , Anastasaki Eirini , Floros Georgios D. , Kouloussis Nikos A. , Koveos Dimitrios S.
Published: July 2021

Females of the olive fruit fly Bactrocera oleae lay their eggs in olives mainly using fruit volatile stimuli. Using GC‐MS analysis, we determined the chemical composition of the volatile blend emitted from field‐collected olive fruit of cv. Megaritiki, at different stages of maturity. GC‐MS analysis demonstrated qualitative and quantitative differences in the headspace blend emitted by the olive fruit. Certain chemicals such as toluene, n‐octane, α‐pinene, limonene, ethyl hexanol, nonanal n‐dodecane, decanal and n‐tetradecane were detected in greater amounts, irrespective of the growth stage of the fruit. The flies’ exposure to a number of these chemicals, such as n‐octane and α‐pinene, as well as to a mixture consisting of n‐octane, α‐pinene, limonene, ethyl hexanol, nonanal, n‐dodecane, decanal and n–tetradecane favoured successful mating and egg production. The results may contribute to the improvement of the mass rearing of the fly, through these findings, which illustrate the positive effect that certain fruit volatile chemicals have on the fly's reproduction and offer a better understanding of the relation between the fly and the host fruit.
Effect of ohmic heating on physicochemical, bioactive compounds, and shelf life of watermelon flesh‐rind drinks
Authors: Kumar Vishal , Jain Sanjay Kumar , Amitabh Anupam , Chavan Sagar Madhukar
Published: July 2021

The effect of thermal treatments on physicochemical, bioactive compounds, and shelf life of watermelon flesh‐rind drinks was evaluated. An attempt was made for the by‐product utilization of watermelon rind as one of the major ingredient. Three different blends of watermelon flesh and rind juices (T1(100:0), T2(90:10), and T3(80:20), respectively) were pasteurized by ohmic and thermal heating (80 ± 1°C for 3 min) and were stored at refrigerated condition for 90 days. It was found that, thermal treatments and storage induced a significant change in all the quality parameters and ohmic heating for pasteurization was effective in obtaining superior quality watermelon drinks. TSS, pH, reducing sugar, total sugar, viscosity, and overall acceptability, showed a significant difference between the two heating methods while nonsignificant effect was observed for titrable acidity and browning index and citrulline content at 5% level of significance. The microbial counts were lower for ohmic heated pasteurized watermelon juices than thermal pasteurization during entire storage period. Ohmically pasteurized treatments T2 and T3 were microbiologically safe while T2 was best organoleptically. Ohmically pasteurized drink T2 treated with @1.00% beetroot and @2.00% fennel extract was acceptable in respect of all quality parameters up to 90 days under refrigerated storage.
Satellite‐based flood mapping in the boreal region for improving situational awareness
Authors: Cohen Juval , Heinilä Kirsikka , Huokuna Mikko , Metsämäki Sari , Heilimo Jyri , Sane Mikko
Published: July 2021

Space‐borne remote sensing techniques enable near real‐time mapping of floods cost‐efficiently. Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and optical sensors are the most suitable for flood detection. However, SAR has become more popular, due to the independence of sunlight and weather conditions, and the increasing data availability. Typical spring floods occurred in northern Finland during 2018. Various remote sensing sources were utilised for monitoring and damage estimation of the flooding. Floods were mapped with the SAR‐based Finnish Flood Centre's Flood Detection Algorithm (FC‐FloDA), a standard threshold‐based approach applied to Sentinel‐1, and a visual interpretation of Sentinel‐2 images. In addition, flood maps from the Copernicus Emergency Management Service (EMS) and aerial photographs from the city of Tornio were ordered. The flood products and interpretations were compared, and a deeper accuracy assessment was conducted on the FC‐FloDA maps. FC‐FloDA was, in general, the most successful in detecting floods within the test areas. The EMS product and the Sentinel‐1 interpretation worked well in open areas, but did not detect floods in forests. The superiority of Flood Centre's product is mainly based on the adaptation of the algorithm to northern boreal environments and the selection of an optimal polarisation for detecting floods also under tree canopies.
A coupled hydrodynamic (HEC‐RAS 2D) and water quality model (WASP) for simulating flood‐induced soil, sediment, and contaminant transport
Authors: Shabani Afshin , Woznicki Sean A. , Mehaffey Megan , Butcher Jonathan , Wool Tim A. , Whung Pai‐Yei
Published: July 2021

Increased intensity and frequency of floods raise concerns about the release and transport of contaminated soil and sediment to and from rivers and streams. To model these processes during flooding events, we developed an External Coupler in Python to link the Hydrologic Engineering Center‐River Analysis System (HEC‐RAS) 2D hydrodynamic model to the Water Quality Analysis Simulation Program (WASP). Accurate data transfer from a hydrodynamic model to a water quality model is critical. Our test results showed the External Coupler successfully linked HEC‐RAS and WASP and addressed technical challenges in aggregating flow data and conserving mass during the flood event. We ran the coupled models for a 100‐year flood event to calculate flood‐induced transport of sediment‐associated arsenic in Woodbridge Creek, NJ. Change in surface sediment and arsenic at the end of 48‐h flood simulation ranged from a net loss of 13.5 cm to a net gain of 11.6 cm, and 16.2 to 2.9 mg/kg, respectively, per model segment, which demonstrates the capability of the coupled model for simulating sediment and contaminant transport in flood.
Combination of aerosolized acetic acid and chlorine dioxide‐releasing film to inactivate Salmonella enterica and its effect on quality of tomatoes and Romaine lettuce
Authors: Fan Xuetong , Jin Tony , Baik Jessica , Gurtler Joshua B. , Mukhopadhyay Sudarsan
Published: July 2021

Novel intervention technologies are needed to minimize pathogen contamination of fresh produce. The present study was undertaken to develop an in‐package treatment system that combined aerosolized acetic acid (AA) and chlorine dioxide (ClO2)‐releasing film in which the acid triggered the release of ClO2 from its precursor. A four‐strain cocktail of Salmonella enterica (S. Montevideo, S. Typhimurium, S. Newport, and S. Saint‐paul) was inoculated onto the surfaces of cut Romaine lettuce and the stem scars of cherry tomatoes. The inoculated samples were placed into clamshell containers containing one ClO2‐releasing film (2.5 × 2.5 cm). After the packages were sealed, AA (2 and 4%) was aerosolized for 60 s into the packages through perforated openings. Results demonstrated that the combination of AA with the ClO2‐releasing film significantly reduced Salmonella populations with reductions of >4 log and >2 log CFU/piece on lettuce and tomato stem scars, respectively. The ClO2‐releasing film or aerosolized AA alone did not result in any significant reductions of Salmonella populations except aerosolized 4% AA, which achieved 2.21 log CFU/piece reductions on lettuce. The combinations and 4% AA treatment caused damage to fresh‐cut lettuce during 14 days of storage as evidenced by the deterioration in appearance, softening, and decreased ascorbic acid and antioxidant levels. The treatments did not significantly affect most of the quality attributes of cherry tomatoes during 21 days of storage at 10°C. Overall, our results demonstrate that the novel combination of AA and ClO2‐releasing film may be used to enhance microbial safety and quality of cherry tomatoes.
Prospective changes in sleep problems in response to the daily rest period among Japanese daytime workers: A longitudinal web survey
Authors: Ikeda Hiroki , Kubo Tomohide , Sasaki Takeshi , Nishimura Yuki , Liu Xinxin , Matsuo Tomoaki , So Rina , Matsumoto Shun , Takahashi Masaya
Published: July 2021

The daily rest period (DRP) is the daily inter‐work interval and can include a sleep opportunity, leisure time, and other non‐work time. A longer DRP may allow workers to increase time in bed (TIB) and adjust sleep timing, and that may reduce sleep problems such as short sleep duration, sleep debt, social jetlag, and poor sleep quality. The present study examined the longitudinal association between the DRP and these sleep problems among Japanese daytime workers. The DRP, TIB on workdays, sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]), sleep debt and social jetlag were measured in November 2016 (n = 10,000) and February 2019 (n = 3,098). Of these, 955 permanent daytime workers were divided into five groups based on the change in the DRP duration: shortened ≥2 hr, shortened ≥1 hr, no change (<1 hr), extended ≥1 hr and extended ≥2 hr. Linear mixed‐model analysis revealed significant interaction (group × time) effects on the TIB, PSQI score and sleep debt (all p < 0.001), but not on social jetlag (p = 0.476). Post hoc comparisons revealed that the TIB was decreased, and the sleep debt was increased in the shortened ≥2 hr group, whereas the TIB was increased and PSQI score was improved in the extended ≥2 hr group (all p < 0.01). These findings suggest that an extension of the DRP improves sleep quantity and quality but not sleep debt and social jetlag. Aside from extending the DRP, ensuring a sufficient sleep duration and adjusting sleep timing during the DRP may also be needed to prevent sleep problems.
Global cascade of care for chronic hepatitis C virus infection: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yousafzai Mohammad T. , Bajis Sahar , Alavi Maryam , Grebely Jason , Dore Gregory J. , Hajarizadeh Behzad
Published: July 2021

The World Health Organization 2030 targets for hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination include diagnosing 90% of people with HCV and treating 80% of people diagnosed with HCV. This systematic review assessed reported data on the HCV care cascade in various countries and populations, with a focus on direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) treatment uptake. Bibliographic databases and conference presentations were searched for studies reporting the HCV care cascade (DAA treatment uptake was a requirement) among the overall population with HCV or sub‐populations at greater risk of HCV. Population‐based studies, with participants representative of a city, province/state or country were eligible. Twenty eligible studies were included, reporting HCV care cascade in 28 populations/sub‐populations from 11 countries. DAA treatment uptake at national levels was reported from Iceland (95%), Egypt (92%), Georgia (79%), Norway (18%) and Sweden (8%), and at sub‐national levels from the Netherlands (52%), Canada (50%), the United States (29%) and Denmark (5%). Among people with HIV‐HCV co‐infection, DAA treatment uptake was 62% in Canada, 44% in the Netherlands, 21% in Switzerland and 18% in the United States. Among people who inject drugs, DAA treatment uptake was 50% in Georgia, 40% in Canada, 37% in Australia and 13% in the United States. Data among people experiencing homelessness were only available from the United States (treatment uptake: 12%–14%). We found no eligible study reporting HCV care cascade data in prisons. Relatively few countries reported HCV care cascade at the national level. DAA treatment uptake was widely varied across populations/sub‐populations, with higher rates reported in recent years.
Utility‐based pricing and hedging of contingent claims in Almgren‐Chriss model with temporary price impact
Authors: Ekren Ibrahim , Nadtochiy Sergey
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we construct the utility‐based optimal hedging strategy for a European‐type option in the Almgren‐Chriss model with temporary price impact. The main mathematical challenge of this work stems from the degeneracy of the second order terms and the quadratic growth of the first‐order terms in the associated Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman equation, which makes it difficult to establish sufficient regularity of the value function needed to construct the optimal strategy in a feedback form. By combining the analytic and probabilistic tools for describing the value function and the optimal strategy, we establish the feedback representation of the latter. We use this representation to derive an explicit asymptotic expansion of the utility indifference price of the option, which allows us to quantify the price impact in options' market via the price impact coefficient in the underlying market.
Complicated pressure–temperature path recorded in the eucrite Padvarninkai
Authors: Miyahara Masaaki , Yamaguchi Akira , Ohtani Eiji , Tomioka Naotaka , Kodama Yu
Published: July 2021

High‐pressure minerals in the eucrite Padvarninkai were investigated. Parts of anorthitic plagioclase and tridymite in the host rock of Padvarninkai vitrified, indicating that the shock pressure was 22–27 GPa. Tissintite, coesite, and a majorite‐bearing garnet occurred in the shock‐melt veins of Padvarninkai as high‐pressure minerals. Tissintite, kyanite, corundum, and dense plagioclase have occurred in the anorthitic plagioclase grains. The anorthitic plagioclase was melted and tissintite crystallized from the melt after the crystallization of kyanite and corundum. The residual melt became dense plagioclase by quenching. Tridymite has also melted and coesite crystallized from the melt. The formation of tissintite and coesite indicates that the shock pressure recorded in the veins was 2–13 GPa. The temperature increased drastically in the veins (>˜3000 K) compared with the host rock (<˜800 K). Parts of the tissintite and coesite became, respectively, amorphous (or anorthite) and quartz. Two different impact events may be recorded in Padvarninkai: The first impact event brecciated a part of the host rock, and the second impact event induced the melting of the brecciated portion, resulting in the formation of shock‐melt veins where the conditions are a high temperature and a relatively low pressure. In the veins, tissintite and coesite formed first, and parts of them underwent a back‐transformation due to a long cooling time.