bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vagus nerve stimulation in the non-human primate: implantation methodology, characterization of nerve anatomy, target engagement and experimental applications
Authors: Suminski Aaron J. , Rajala Abigail Z. , Birn Rasmus M. , Mueller Ellie M. , Malone Margaret E. , Ness Jared P. , Filla Caitlyn , Brunner Kevin , McMillan Alan B. , Poore Samuel O. , Williams Justin C. , Murali Dhanabalan , Brzeczkowski Andrea , Hurley Samuel A. , Dingle Aaron M. , Zeng Weifeng , Lake Wendell B. , Ludwig Kip A. , Populin Luis C.
Published: April 2023

Background

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a FDA approved therapy regularly used to treat a variety of neurological disorders that impact the central nervous system (CNS) including epilepsy and stroke. Putatively, the therapeutic efficacy of VNS results from its action on neuromodulatory centers via projections of the vagus nerve to the solitary tract nucleus. Currently, there is not an established large animal model that facilitates detailed mechanistic studies exploring how VNS impacts the function of the CNS, especially during complex behaviors requiring motor action and decision making.

Methods

We describe the anatomical organization, surgical methodology to implant VNS electrodes on the left gagus nerve and characterization of target engagement/neural interface properties in a non-human primate (NHP) model of VNS that permits chronic stimulation over long periods of time. Furthermore, we describe the results of pilot experiments in a small number of NHPs to demonstrate how this preparation might be used in an animal model capable of performing complex motor and decision making tasks.

Results

VNS electrode impedance remained constant over months suggesting a stable interface. VNS elicited robust activation of the vagus nerve which resulted in decreases of respiration rate and/or partial pressure of carbon dioxide in expired air, but not changes in heart rate in both awake and anesthetized NHPs.

Conclusions

We anticipate that this preparation will be very useful to study the mechanisms underlying the effects of VNS for the treatment of conditions such as epilepsy and depression, for which VNS is extensively used, as well as for the study of the neurobiological basis underlying higher order functions such as learning and memory.
The utility of chemical shift imaging and related Dixon images in evaluation of bone marrow edema-like changes in diabetic foot
Authors: Allam Mohammad Fouad Abdel-Baki , El-Sherif Ashraf Mohamed Hassan , Helmy Amr Hamdy , Abdelgawad Ehab Ali , Mohammad Shimaa Shehata Mohammad , Abdel-Rahman Alshaimaa Mahfouz
Published: April 2023

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best diagnostic tool for suspected diabetic foot osteomyelitis (DFO); adding T1-based Dixon to MR technique can identify the bone marrow edema-like signal observed in neuropathic joints and differentiate it from that observed in DFO. The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic efficacy of chemical shift imaging (T1 in-phase and out-of-phase) and related Dixon sequence in differentiation between infectious edema-like signal found in osteomyelitis and bland edema signals observed in osteomyelitis mimickers (as neuropathic arthropathy). The study was conducted on 50 patients who were referred by surgical outpatient clinics between January 2020 and January 2022; they underwent MRI of the foot including T1-Dixon sequence.

Results

There were variable bone and joint affection, and the most common location of bony affection in the study was the hind-foot. Forty-four out of fifty patients had bone marrow edema-like signals. Thirty-seven patients (74%) were diagnosed with osteomyelitis, whereas seven (14%) patients were diagnosed with non-infective/bland bone marrow edema signals which were related to Charcot arthropathy and/or nearby infection. Both visual and quantitative assessments of chemical shift imaging showed high sensitivity and specificity in diagnosis of DFO. The optimal cut-off point of signal intensity ratio for diagnosis of DFO was 1.005 with high sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusions

Chemical shift imaging and related Dixon sequence were reliable methods in diabetic foot evaluation; they could help differentiate infectious edema-like changes of osteomyelitis from and bland edema of osteomyelitis mimickers with high sensitivity and specificity especially on using quantitative analysis of their signal abnormality.
Relationships of 18F-FDG PET with tumor microenvironment immunotypes, especially PD-L1 and CD15 expression, and prognosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Seki Mai , Sano Takaaki , Ogawa Masaru , Yokoo Satoshi , Oyama Tetsunari
Published: April 2023

Background

The relationship between 2-[18F]-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose–positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) findings and programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression has been reported in several cancers. We investigated the correlations of FDG uptake with immune cell counts, including myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and PD-L1 expression in the tumor microenvironment. We examined 72 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) with immunohistochemistry data for PD-L1, CD8, S100A8, CD15, and CD33. We used the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) to reflect FDG uptake in each patient.

Results

High SUVmax and high MDSC counts were associated with poor prognosis. Significantly higher SUVmax was found in patients with high PD-L1 expression and in those with a high CD15+ cell density (P = 0.03 and P = 0.02, respectively). In multiple regression analysis, the tumor size had the greatest effect on SUVmax (P < 0.001), followed by PD-L1 (P = 0.014), and when the tumor size was excluded, CD15 (P = 0.02) was included in the prediction equation. FDG uptake in some cold tumor subgroups, low PD-L1 expression, and a low CD8+ cell density was linked to significantly lower SUVmax than the other variables. High SUVmax was clearly associated with high PD-L1 expression and/or a high CD15+ cell density.

Conclusions

FDG uptake was affected by PD-L1 expression and the density of CD15+ cells in cancer tissue. FDG-PET may illuminate the tumor microenvironment immunotypes before biopsy or resection.
Effects of 6 weeks of ankle stability exercises on pain, functional abilities, and flexibility in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Abdelhaleem Mahmoud D. , Abdelhay Mohamed I. , Aly Sobhy M. , Abdallah Ehab A. , Neamat Allah Neama H.
Published: April 2023

Background

Due to delayed activation of the deep trunk muscles, patients with chronic non-specific low back pain use different adjustment strategies to maintain postural control. Patients with chronic non-specific low back pain maintain a quite standing posture during pain episode and challenging activities by using signals from other joints, mainly the ankle joint. Since proprioceptive signals from the ankle joint reduce postural control variability in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain, this study explored whether ankle stability exercises added to traditional physical therapy exercises would improve the intensity of pain, functional disabilities and lumbar flexion range of motion in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain.

Methods

Sixty patients with chronic non-specific low back pain participated in the current study. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups: group A and group B. Patients in group A received traditional physical therapy exercises for low back pain. Patients in group B received the same traditional physical therapy exercises as patients in group A, plus ankle stability exercises. The intensity of pain, functional disability, and lumbar flexion range of motion were assessed twice before and after a 6-week period during which each group received their interventions.

Results

Mixed design MANOVA revealed a significant decrease in visual analog scale and Oswestry Disability Index in group B compared to group A post treatment (p < 0.05). Moreover, there was a significant increase in the lumbar flexion range of motion in group B compared with group A post treatment (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The findings of this study revealed that adding ankle stability exercises to the traditional physical therapy exercises significantly improved pain, Oswestry Disability Index, and lumbar flexion range of motion in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain. Thus, ankle strengthening and proprioceptive exercises may be beneficial in the management of chronic non-specific low back pain.
Fluid balance in critically ill children with lower respiratory tract viral infection: a cohort study
Authors: Robino Chiara , Toncelli Guido , Sorrentino Laura Arianna , Fioccola Antonio , Tedesco Brigida , Giugni Cristina , L’Erario Manuela , Ricci Zaccaria
Published: April 2023

Background

Increasing evidence has associated positive fluid balance of critically ill patients with poor outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore the pattern of daily fluid balances and their association with outcomes in critically ill children with lower respiratory tract viral infection.

Methods

A retrospective single-center study was conducted, in children supported with high-flow nasal cannula, non-invasive ventilation, or invasive ventilation. Median (interquartile range) daily fluid balances, cumulative fluid overload (FO) and peak FO variation, indexed as the % of admission body weight, over the first week of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit admission, and their association with the duration of respiratory support were assessed.

Results

Overall, 94 patients with a median age of 6.9 (1.9–18) months, and a respiratory support duration of 4 (2–7) days, showed a median (interquartile range) daily fluid balance of 18 (4.5–19.5) ml/kg at day 1, which decreased up to day 3 to 5.9 (− 14 to 24.9) ml/kg and increased to 13 (− 11 to 29.9) ml/kg at day 7 (p = 0.001). Median cumulative FO% was 4.6 (− 0.8 to 11) and peak FO% was 5.7 (1.9–12.4). Daily fluid balances, once patients were stratified according to the respiratory support, were significantly lower in those requiring mechanical ventilation (p = 0.003). No correlation was found between all examined fluid balances and respiratory support duration or oxygen saturation, even after subgroup analysis of patients with invasive mechanical ventilation, or respiratory comorbidities, or bacterial coinfection, or of patients under 1 year old.

Conclusions

In a cohort of children with bronchiolitis, fluid balance was not associated with duration of respiratory support or other parameters of pulmonary function.
Are We Getting Closer to the Promise of Cure? New Progress and Future Directions in the Treatment of Early-Stage Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Das Millie
Published: April 2023

Are we getting closer to the promise of cure? New Progress and Future Directions in the Treatment of Early Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Increased GH/IGF-I Axis Activity Relates to Lower Hepatic Lipids and Phosphor Metabolism
Authors: Fellinger Paul , Beiglböck Hannes , Semmler Georg , Pfleger Lorenz , Smajis Sabina , Baumgartner Clemens , Gajdosik Martin , Marculescu Rodrig , Vila Greisa , Winhofer Yvonne , Scherer Thomas , Trauner Michael , Kautzky-Willer Alexandra , Krssak Martin , Krebs Michael , Wolf Peter
Published: April 2023

Context

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a leading causes of liver-related morbidity and mortality. While data on acromegaly, a state of chronic growth hormone (GH)/insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) excess, suggest an inverse relationship with intrahepatic lipid (IHL) content, less is known about the impact of the GH/IGF-I axis on IHL, lipid composition, and phosphor metabolites in individuals without disorders of GH secretion.

Objective

The aim was to investigate the relation between activity of the GH/IGF-I axis and IHL content and phosphor metabolism.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional study in 59 otherwise metabolically healthy individuals (30 females), of which 16 met the criteria of NAFLD with IHL of ≥5.6%. The GH/IGF-I axis was evaluated in a fasting state and during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Insulin sensitivity was estimated by validated indices. IHL, lipid composition (unsaturation index), and phosphate metabolites were analyzed by using 1H/31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Results

In the overall cohort (40.6 ± 15 years; body mass index: 24.5 ± 3 kg/m2; IGF-I: 68.0 ± 17% upper limit of normal), fasting GH (R = −0.31; P = .02), GH during oral glucose tolerance test (R = −0.51; P < .01), and IGF-I (R = −0.28; P = .03) inversely correlated with IHL. GH levels during OGTT were significantly lower in NAFLD than in controls (47.7 [22; 143] ng/mL/min vs 16.8 [7; 32] ng/mL/min; P = .003). GH/IGF-I axis activity correlated with lipid composition and with phosphor metabolites. In multiple regression analysis, the GH/IGF-I axis activity was a strong predictor for IHL and lipid composition independent from insulin sensitivity.

Conclusion

GH/IGF-I axis activity impacts hepatic lipid and phosphate metabolism in individuals without disorders in GH secretion. Lower GH axis activity is associated with higher IHL and an unfavorable lipid composition, probably mediated by changes in hepatic energy metabolism.
PAC1 Deficiency Protects Obese Male Mice From Immobilization-Induced Muscle Atrophy by Suppressing FoxO–Atrogene Axis
Authors: Li Qifang , Ishii Kiyo-aki , Kamoshita Kyoko , Takahashi Kenta , Abuduwaili Halimulati , Takayama Hiroaki , Galicia-Medina Cynthia M , Tanida Ryota , Ko Oo Hein , Gafiyatullina Guzel , Yao Xingyu , Abuduyimiti Tuerdiguli , Hamazaki Jun , Goto Hisanori , Nakano Yujiro , Takeshita Yumie , Harada Kenichi , Murata Shigeo , Takamura Toshinari
Published: April 2023

Muscle atrophy is the cause and consequence of obesity. Proteasome dysfunction mediates obesity-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and insulin resistance in the liver and adipose tissues. However, obesity-associated regulation of proteasome function and its role in the skeletal muscles remains underinvestigated. Here, we established skeletal muscle-specific 20S proteasome assembly chaperone-1 (PAC1) knockout (mPAC1KO) mice. A high-fat diet (HFD) activated proteasome function by ∼8-fold in the skeletal muscles, which was reduced by 50% in mPAC1KO mice. mPAC1KO induced unfolded protein responses in the skeletal muscles, which were reduced by HFD. Although the skeletal muscle mass and functions were not different between the genotypes, genes involved in the ubiquitin proteasome complex, immune response, endoplasmic stress, and myogenesis were coordinately upregulated in the skeletal muscles of mPAC1KO mice. Therefore, we introduced an immobilization-induced muscle atrophy model in obesity by combining HFD and immobilization. mPAC1KO downregulated atrogin-1 and MuRF1, together with their upstream Foxo1 and Klf15, and protected against disused skeletal muscle mass reduction. In conclusion, obesity elevates proteasome functions in the skeletal muscles. PAC1 deficiency protects mice from immobilization-induced muscle atrophy in obesity. These findings suggest obesity-induced proteasome activation as a possible therapeutic target for immobilization-induced muscle atrophy.
The Sweetness of Race: On Synesthesia, Addiction, and Self-Possessed Personhood in Monique Truong’s Bitter in the Mouth
Authors: You Sunhay
Published: April 2023

“The Sweetness of Race” examines the sensorial effects of lexical-gustatory synesthesia in Monique Truong’s Bitter in the Mouth (2010). In this documentation of how words taste, whiteness becomes associated with the taste of sugar and its addictive properties. Throughout the novel, whiteness becomes legible as an object of addiction that defends against the failed ideals of self-possessed human personhood—a cornerstone to white supremacy. The novel then reveals opportunities to reorganize the senses and ideas of personhood as a means to disrupt particularly harmful appetites for racialized intimacies.
Social Exclusion and Social Preferences: Evidence from Colombia’s Leper Colony
Authors: Ramos-Toro Diego
Published: April 2023

This paper explores the intergenerational consequences of social exclusion on prosociality. A lab-in-the-field approach in the historical region of Colombia’s leper colony reveals that descendants of socially excluded individuals are locally altruistic and extend such altruism to outsiders who have undergone similar circumstances. These individuals also display mistrust toward those who have, historically, been exclusionary—in this case, doctors. The content of historical narratives shared by ancestors who were excluded, which emphasize the endured mistreatment and doctors’ historical misinformation, is one mechanism that partially explains the intergenerational patterns. (JEL D64, H51, I12, I18, N36, N96, Z13)
Peer Effects in Police Use of Force
Authors: Holz Justin E. , Rivera Roman G. , Ba Bocar A.
Published: April 2023

We study the link between police officers’ on-duty injuries and their peers’ force use using a network of officers who attended the police academy together through a random lottery. On-duty injuries increase the probability of officers using force by 7 percent in the subsequent week. Officers are also more likely to injure suspects and receive complaints about neglecting victims and violating constitutional rights. The effect is concentrated in a narrow time window following the event and is not associated with significantly lower injury risk to the officer. Together, these findings suggest that emotional responses drive the effects rather than social learning. (JEL H76, J28, K42)
Can Forward Commodity Markets Improve Spot Market Performance? Evidence from Wholesale Electricity
Authors: Jha Akshaya , Wolak Frank A.
Published: April 2023

Forward markets are believed to aggregate information about future spot prices and reduce the cost of producing the commodity. We develop a measure of the extent to which forward and spot prices agree in markets with transaction costs. Using this measure, we show that day-ahead prices better reflect real-time prices at all locations in California’s electricity market after the introduction of financial trading. We then present evidence suggesting that operating costs and input fuel use fell after the introduction of financial trading on days when the nonconvexities inherent to the production and transmission of electricity are especially relevant. (JEL D23, D24, G13, L94, L98, Q48)
Case Report: Successful results of direct varicose vein ablation with EVLA in chronic venous insufficiency patient in Indonesia
Authors: Taofan Taofan , Utoh Junichi , Dakota Iwan , Indriani Suci , Abdillah Choiron , Kartamihardja Achmad Hafiedz Azis , Adiarto Suko , Sukmawan Renan
Published: April 2023

Background: Varicose veins are considered a chronic venous disease. Delaying treatment might cause several late complications that contribute to a high burden on healthcare systems. It may be treated with endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) and stab avulsion as additional procedures. Varicose direct ablation has been promoted to replace stab avulsion in certain conditions. Here we report the case of a 71-year-old female who presented with chronic venous insufficiency managed by an endovascular therapeutic approach using direct varix ablation for the first time in National Cardiovascular Center – Harapan Kita, Jakarta, Indonesia.

Case report: A 71-year-old female came to the outpatient clinic with a large bulging vein in her leg. Duplex ultrasound showed that the great saphenous vein (GSV) was incompetent with a varicose vein in the medial part of proximal GSV below the knee. The patient underwent EVLA with direct varicose ablation using Utoh’s technique. Duplex sonography evaluation showed the right GSV was utterly obliterated, including the varicose vein. The patient was discharged two days after the procedure without significant complaints nor pain medication.

Conclusions: Direct varicose ablation was proposed as a better alternative than stab avulsion. The varicose vein can be managed with EVLA without a scalpel, incision, avulsion, or phlebectomy. In this case presentation, the endovascular therapeutical approach with Utoh’s ablation technique showed promising results, and no complication was found in the patient.
Tracking aspects of healthcare activity during the first nine months of COVID-19 in Ireland: a secondary analysis of publicly available data
Authors: McGlacken-Byrne Domhnall , Parker Sarah , Burke Sara
Published: April 2023

Background: Sláintecare aims to introduce universal healthcare in Ireland. The COVID-19 pandemic poses both challenges and opportunities to this process. This study explored the impact of COVID-19 on aspects of Irish healthcare during the first nine months of the pandemic and considers the implications for Sláintecare implementation.

Methods: Secondary analysis was undertaken on publicly available data on three key domains of the Irish healthcare system: primary care, community-based allied healthcare, and hospitals. Descriptive statistics were computed using Microsoft Excel 2016.

Results: Up to March 2021, 3.76 million COVID-19 tests were performed by Ireland’s public healthcare system, 2.48 million (66.0%) of which were referred from the community. General practitioners delivered 2.31 million telephone triages of COVID-19 symptoms, peaking in December 2020 when 416,607 consultations occurred. Patient numbers across eight allied healthcare specialties fell by 35.1% versus previous years, with the greatest reductions seen in speech and language therapy (49.0%) and audiology (46.1%). Hospital waiting lists increased from 729,937 to 869,676 (or by 19.1%) from January 2019 to January 2021. In January 2021, 629,919 patients awaited a first outpatient clinic appointment, with 170,983 (27.1%) waiting longer than 18 months. The largest outpatient lists were observed in orthopaedic surgery (n=77,257); ear, nose and throat surgery (n=68,073); and ophthalmology (n=47,075). The proportion of patients waiting more than 12 months for a day-case gastrointestinal endoscopy rose from 6.0% in January 2020 to 19.0% in January 2021.

Conclusions: Healthcare activity has been significantly disrupted by COVID-19, leading to increased wait times and greater barriers to healthcare access during the pandemic. Yet, Ireland’s health system responses also revealed strong willingness and ability to adapt and to implement novel solutions for healthcare delivery, rapidly and at scale. This has demonstrated what is achievable under Sláintecare and provides a unique opportunity to ‘build back better’ towards sustainable recovery.
The Heritage Digital Twin: a bicycle made for two. The integration of digital methodologies into cultural heritage research
Authors: Niccolucci Franco , Markhoff Béatrice , Theodoridou Maria , Felicetti Achille , Hermon Sorin
Published: April 2023

The paper concerns the definition of a novel ontology for cultural heritage based on the concept of digital twin. The ontology, called Heritage Digital Twin ontology, is a compatible extension of the well-known CIDOC CRM ISO standard for cultural heritage documentation and incorporates all the different documentation systems presently in use for cultural heritage documentation. In the authors’ view, it supports documentation interoperability at a higher level than the ones currently in use and enables effective cooperation among different users.
Frontiers: Unmasking Social Compliance Behavior During the Pandemic
Authors: Zhang Shunyuan , Xu Kaiquan , Srinivasan Kannan
Published: April 2023

We assess different motives underlying mask-wearing behaviors and discuss novel strategies for segmenting customers based on the motives.
Prenatal Developmental Oral Toxicity Evaluation of Defatted Fenugreek Seed Flakes (FenuflakesTM) in Laboratory Rats
Authors: Thakurdesai Prasad Arvind , Deshpande Pallavi Onkar , Pujari Rohini Revansiddappa , Gumaste Shailesh Anil , Pore Mukul Prabhakar
Published: April 2023

Fenugreek seed-based ingredients showed potential health benefits towards female-specific conditions. The present work is aimed to assess the prenatal oral toxicity of fibers and protein rich defatted fenugreek seed flakes (Fenuflakes™). The acute oral toxicity and dose range-finding studies in non-pregnant and pregnant rats were conducted before the main study. The selected doses of Fenuflakes (500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg) were orally gavaged to rats daily from day 0 to day 19 (one day before the expected day of parturition) post-conception with the concurrent vehicle control (VC) group. On the 20th day of gestation, the maternal and embryo-fetal toxicity parameters were recorded after the cesarean sections of dams. Results: Fenuflakes in tested doses exposure did not show significant toxicological changes in maternal (body weights, food intake, anogenital distance, or clinical observations) and embryo-fetal evaluations (number of corpora lutea, resorptions, and implantations, or fetus weights, sex ratio or incidence of anomalies) compared with VC. Conclusion: Oral prenatal exposure to Fenuflakes was found safe with no significant maternal and embryo-fetal toxicities. The "No Observed Adverse Effect Level” (NOAEL) of Fenuflakes (> 2000 mg/kg/day) can be used for risk assessment before human consumption in pregnant female population.
Effect of Protein Concentrates and Isolates on the Rheological, Structural, Thermal and Sensory Properties of Ice Cream
Authors: Tvorogova Antonina Anatolievna , Gurskiy Igor Alexeyevich , Shobanova Tatyana Vladimirovna , Smykov Igor Timofeyevich
Published: April 2023

The possibility of using protein concentrates and isolates instead of milk solids-not-fat (MSNF) in the production of ice cream with a high mass fraction of milk fat (12%) and increased mass fraction of protein was investigated and justified in this article. The ice cream samples with use of milk protein concentrates (MPC), whey protein concentrates (WPC), milk protein isolates (MPI) and native whey protein isolates (NWPI) were made according to classical technology. Ice cream samples were analyzed by their quality indices. Viscosity and texture of samples were studied by the rheological methods; the overrun was calculated. The microstructural properties, such as dispersion of ice crystals and air bubbles were investigated by the light microscopy. The sensorial properties were analyzed by 6 certified panelists. The reduction in viscosity by 9-74% with use of MPC, WPC and MPI and the increase by 96% with use of NWPI were noted. It was found that replacement of MSNF reduced the overrun by 36-67%. Study of microstructure showed that with use of protein isolates, mean size of ice crystals was reduced and with use of protein concentrates was increased. The increasing in mean size of air bubbles with use of NWPI was established. The studied textural parameters were increased with use MPC and MPI. The hardness and adhesiveness with use of NWPI were increased. The sensorial properties of samples with replacement of MSNF were not worse than with use of MSNF. It has been established that the replacement of MSNF with concentrates and isolates of milk and whey proteins can be an effective way to increasing the protein content in ice cream while maintaining or improving its sensory properties.
Bioaccessibility of Antioxidant Capacity of Wedang Uwuh a Traditional Indonesian Beverage by Gastrointestinal Digestion
Authors: Fauziah Ika Nuriyana , Prangdimurti Endang , Palupi Nurheni Sri
Published: April 2023

Wedang uwuh is a traditional Indonesian beverage that contains natural antioxidants. Hence, it is generally consumed by people to get health benefits. The antioxidant compounds can exert their activity only after passing through the digestive system. This study aims to determine the impact of boiling time on the antioxidant bioaccessibility of wedang uwuh beverages after passing through digestive process, which are gastric and intestinal stages. The antioxidant bioaccessibility was evaluated using the bioaccessibility index (BI) of antioxidant capacity (FRAP, DPPH, and ABTS assay) and the bioaccessibility of phenolic content was also measured using total phenolic content (folin–ciocalteu method). The research found that lengthening of boiling time could increase significantly (p<0.05) number of phenolic content, as well as antioxidant capacity. The 15 minutes of boiling resulted in the highest phenolic content and antioxidant capacity before digestion. Otherwise, after wedang uwuh beverage passes through gastric and intestinal digestion, boiling for 5 minutes resulted in the highest phenolic content and capacity of antioxidants. This was due to heat processing influencing the stability of phenolic and antioxidant compounds before and after digestion. The bioaccessibility of antioxidant and phenolic compounds in wedang uwuh beverage was higher in the 5 minutes boiling process than in the 15 minutes. The boiling process for 5 minutes resulted in the bioaccessibility index of wedang uwuh beverage were 32.25% for total phenolic content, 37.25% for FRAP, 25.88% for scavenging of radical DPPH• and 83.45% for scavenging of radical ionic ABTS•+. Hence, it was recommended to use a boiling time of 5 minutes to prepare a wedang uwuh beverage. This study found that pH conditions and enzymatic activity in gastrointestinal digestion decreased phenolic and antioxidant contents.
A Bibliometric Framework for Quantifying Research on Kimchi, A Staple Korean Dish
Authors: Raghavendra G Raghavendra G , Domadhar Nitish , Mallya Jyothi , T. K Manish
Published: April 2023

Kimchi is one of the fermented foods studied and discussed by researchers for many decades. Several perspectives have been considered while investigating the role of Kimchi. Thus, this demands a scientific review of this domain. This study is an honest attempt to map the scientific production of Kimchi. A descriptive, performance and bibliometric analysis were conducted to achieve the objective based on 924 documents recovered from the Scopus database. The results suggest a steady growth in the number of publications since 2016. The initial data shows that 160 journals have contributed 924 articles between 1979-2022. It is found that South Korea contributes nearly 94% (868 articles) of the total contribution, followed by the United States, China, and Japan. The institution-wise analysis (Figure 4) of the published articles based on the authors' affiliations suggests that most articles have been published by South Korean Institutes, followed by the United States. With 19 publications, the Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition has emerged as the most influential journal in Kimchi literature. The keyword analysis identifies nine themes. This analysis's findings reveal that the properties of Kimchi and the quality and sensory evaluation of kimchi were the most niche topics in this domain. Findings also revealed that the health benefits of Kimchi, the quality of Kimchi, and the bacteria involved in Kimchi fermentation were emerging themes in the Kimchi knowledge base. The findings of this study are helpful for future researchers in identifying the most influential authors, journals, and articles. Further, this study’s results also determine future research objectives in the Kimchi studies.
A review of nurse independent prescribers: experiences, barriers and facilitators in palliative care
Authors: Lear Victoria
Published: April 2023

Background:

Further exploration is needed to determine whether UK-based nurse independent prescribers (NIPs) are using their advanced skills within palliative care teams, as well as whether organisations should continue to invest in developing multidisciplinary healthcare professionals in such a resource-intense skill.

Aim:

This study aimed to evaluate the experiences of NIPs to inform future workforce planning and service development.

Methods:

Practitioners' experiences were explored through a mixed-methodology online survey, which was provided to NIPs delivering end-of-life care within hospital, hospice and community settings.

Findings:

The survey consisted of 13 questions and was distributed to nine NIPs, six of whom responded. The barriers to prescribing were identified as a lack of confidence, time and electronic prescribing, as well as the need for increased supervision. The advantages of prescribing were described as increased pharmacological knowledge and increased and rapid symptom control for patients.

Conclusions:

A clear, continuous professional development pathway within the organisation is needed to support and enhance the development of NIPs. Moving forwards, electronic prescribing should be integrated to ensure safer practice.
Advanced practice in Scotland
Authors: Henderson Colette
Published: April 2023

Colette Henderson discusses the development of advancing practice guidance across Scotland and explores how it has evolved through UK- and international-based cooperation
Supplemental information for "Risk Assessment Methods for Autonomous Agricultural Machines: A Review of Current Practices and Future Needs"
Authors: Sandner Kelly , Shutske John , Jamieson Zachary
Published: April 2023

This is the survey and correspondence used with the survey in contacting the potential respondents.
Selection index and agronomic characters of doubled haploid rice lines from anther culture
Authors: HADIANTO WIRA , PURWOKO BAMBANG SAPTA , DEWI ISWARI SARASWATI , SUWARNO WILLY BAYUARDI , HIDAYAT PURNAMA
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Hadianto W, Purwoko BS, Dewi IS, Suwarno WB, Hidayat P. 2023. Selection index and agronomic characters of doubled haploid rice lines from anther culture. Biodiversitas 24: 1511-1517. Development of superior rice varieties requires selection of the best lines having good agronomic characters and high yields. This study aimed to select high-yielding doubled haploid rice lines obtained from anther culture through index selection and agronomic characters. The study was conducted using a single-factor randomized complete block design (RCBD) with genotype as treatment. Sixty doubled haploid lines and 5 check varieties were evaluated along with three replications, hence, the total experimental unit was 195. Analysis of variance showed that the genotypes had a significant effect on all observed characters, except for the number of productive tillers. The agronomic characters observed had a high broad sense of heritability, except for the number of productive tillers which was in the medium category. Furthermore, index selection was carried out based on productivity, the number of productive tillers, the total number of grains, as well as the percentage of filled grains. Based on the index selection, 29 lines were selected among the 60 doubled haploid rice lines tested. These lines had the range in productivity from 2.95 to 6.77 ton ha-1, the number of productive tillers from 12.3 to 20.8 tillers, the total number of grains from 135 to 275.4 seeds, the filled grain percentage from 53.23 to 87.61%, and the selection index from -1.48 to 7.88. The selected lines will be further tested at the next experimental stage in several locations to produce high-yielding, brown planthopper-resistant, and drought-tolerant rice varieties.
Morpho-physiological and molecular characteristics of bacteria causing stalk rot disease on corn in Gorontalo, Indonesia
Authors: SURIANI SURIANI , PATANDJENGI BAHARUDDIN , MUIS AMRAN , JUNAID MUHAMMAD , MIRSAM HISHAR , AZRAI MUHAMMAD
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Suriani, Patandjengi B, Muis A, Junaid M, Mirsam H, Azrai M. 2023. Morpho-physiological and molecular characteristics of bacteria causing stalk rot disease on corn in Gorontalo, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 1749-1758. Stalk rot disease was observed in corn in Gorontalo with typical symptoms, such as soft rot on the stalk, leaf wilting, and plant death. This study aimed to characterize the bacteria causing stalk rot disease in corn. Samples of infected plants were collected and identified morphologically, physiologically, and molecularly. The results showed that nine bacterial isolates were isolated from infected plants. All nine isolates showed positive hypersensitive responses on tobacco leaves. In comparison, only two bacterial isolates (BGO1 and BGO4) were positive on pathogenicity tests on corn. However, the BGO4 isolate caused the highest disease incidence with a faster incubation period. The BGO4 isolate was gram-negative with white-gray colored colonies. Physiological characterization of BGO4 also showed: positive catalase and indole, oxidase negative, fermentative oxidation, caused soft rot on potato, non-fluorescent, and sensitive to erythromycin. In addition, it can grow at 37-40°C and 5% NaCl, producing protease and lecithinase enzymes. The BGO4 also isolates infected rice, corn, sorghum, foxtail millet, celery, and Aloe vera. Morpho-physiology characteristics and diagnostic amplification of DNA by PCR using the Dickeya-specific primers (ADE1/ADE2) showed that the isolate belongs to the genus Dickeya. Further molecular characterization by analysis of the 16S rDNA using universal primer 27F/1497R successfully amplified the DNA band of BGO4 isolate measuring ±1300 bp. Phylogenetic analysis showed that it was in the same group as Dickeya zeae strain MS32 from Taiwan, strain DZ15SB01 (Thailand), and strain HNJF02 (China), with the coefficient of genetic distance ranging from 0.001 to 0.002. This study is the first report of D. zeae infecting corn in Gorontalo.
Biosurfactant production of entomopathogenic Bacillus subtilis BK7.1, as potential biocontrol bacteria, isolated from Baluran National Park, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: SALAMUN SALAMUN , SUSETYO RIZKY DANANG , NI’MATUZAHROH NI’MATUZAHROH , FATIMAH FATIMAH , GERALDI ALMANDO , SUPRIYANTO AGUS , NURHARIYATI TRI , NAFIDIASTRI FARAH AISYAH , NISA’ NABILATUN , ENDARTO ENDARTO
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Salamun, Susetyo RD, Ni’matuzahroh, Fatimah, Geraldi A, Supriyanto A, Nurhariyati T, Nafidiastri FA, Nisa’ N, Endarto. 2023. Biosurfactant production of entomopathogenic Bacillus subtilis BK7.1, as potential biocontrol bacteria, isolated from Baluran National Park, East Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 1785-1792. Biosurfactants as biocontrol agents have received much attention for pest control and disease vectors. The research aimed to identify the species and genetic relationship, hemolytic activity, detect coding genes, and trial production of biosurfactants on various substrates of entomopathogenic Bacillus sp. BK7.1 isolated from natural soil in Baluran National Park, East Java, Indonesia. Biosurfactant screening was carried out by testing hemolytic activity, surface tension, and emulsification activities, detecting coding genes of biosurfactant biosynthesis, and testing biosurfactant production in various substrates. The results of the molecular identification by amplifying the 16S rRNA gene using the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) method for Bacillus sp. BK7.1 has a genetic similarity of 98.68% with B. subtilis subsp. inaquosorum strain BGSC 3A28. Screening showed positive hemolytic activity results, reduced surface tension, increased emulsification activities, and the production of biosurfactant in glucose, glycerol, and molasses substrates. The PCR results showed that Bacillus sp. BK7.1 had srfAA and srfAD genes encoding surfactin biosynthesis, giving it the potential to produce bioinsecticide compounds. Based on these studies, the indigenous entomopathogenic B. subtilis BK7.1 can be developed as environmentally friendly microbial bioinsecticides for pest control and disease vectors.
Bilateral Knee Septic Arthritis after Prostatic Urethral Lift: A Case Report
Authors: Goodsell Scott , Lewis Alexandra , Domanski Kristina
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Septic arthritis (SA) is a rare clinical entity that can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Recent years have seen a rise in minimally invasive surgical therapy for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, including prostatic urethral lift. We report a case of bilateral simultaneous SA of the knees, following a prostatic urethral lift procedure. SA following a urologic procedure has not previously been reported. Case Report: A 79-year-old male presented to the Emergency Department through an ambulance with bilateral knee pain with associated fever and chills. Two weeks before presentation, he had undergone a prostatic urethral lift, cystoscopy, and Foley catheter placement. The examination was remarkable for bilateral knee effusions. Arthrocentesis was performed, and the synovial fluid analysis was consistent with a diagnosis of SA. Conclusion: This case emphasizes the need for frontline clinicians to consider SA in patients presenting with joint pain as a rare complication of prostatic instrumentation. Keywords: Septic arthritis, knee joint, prostatic urethral lift.
REAL-TIME PLOTTING OF BIOMEDICAL SIGNALS IN APPLICATIONS UTILIZING WINDOWS PRESENTATION FOUNDATION TECHNOLOGY
Authors:   Łukasiewicz Research Network – Krakow Institute of Technology, Sobotnicka Ewelina , Feige Daniel ,   Łukasiewicz Research Network – Krakow Institute of Technology
Published: April 2023

Abstract: Utilization of personal computers in medicine requires strong emphasis on software performance. Contemporary programming languages give engineers great flexibility in developing applications. Since these technologies are more and more complex, there is a need to analyze methods of achieving desired results taking into account time requirements. This paper focuses mainly on development of plotting module using Windows Presentation Foundation library, which is one of the newest tool for software developers. Aspects of plotter creation for technologically limited screen are covered and conclusions are summarized giving recommendations regarding the topic. General methods of drawing signal on a raster surface are also discussed. Since medical signals in monitoring range consist of frequencies up to about 100 Hz, one has to take into account aspects of signal scaling in order to not to make its important parts invisible. The main problem is that personal computer screen, e.g. a monitor, is purely digital in nature; actually it is the set of pixels (consisting of three components). Because resolution is limited, the signal must be limited in frequency to the range which can be shown at a given plotting speed. This paper describes these aspects of signal plotting as well as the method for virtually increasing pixel resolution by using particular components of a pixel. This paper is a summary giving a general idea of the capabilities of the above mentioned WPF technology and the basis for creating such programs using methods such as: WriteableBitmap method, DrawingVisual method, Canvas Method type 1, Canvas Method type 2.
Health Effects of Sleep Quality in Premutation Carrier Mothers of Individuals With Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Dembo Robert S. , Hong Jinkuk , DaWalt Leann Smith , Berry-Kravis Elizabeth M. , Mailick Marsha R.
Published: April 2023

Sleep plays an integral role in supporting well-being, and sleep difficulties are common in mothers of individuals with developmental disabilities, including fragile X syndrome (FXS). This study assessed whether the effects of sleep quality on physical health and depression are exacerbated by genetic risk factors (CGG repeats) in FMR1 premutation carrier mothers of individuals with FXS. Poor sleep quality predicted a greater number of physical health conditions for mothers with CGG repeats in the mid-premutation range (90–110 repeats), but not for those in the lower (< 90 repeats) or higher (> 110 repeats) ends of the range. A significant association between poor sleep quality and maternal depressive symptoms was also observed, but there was no evidence that this effect varied by level of genetic vulnerability. This research extends our understanding of individual differences in the effects of sleep quality among mothers of individuals with FXS.
Enhanced chirality induced in a composite structure consisting of α-MoO3 film and a silver metasurface
Authors: Yang Bing , Huang Yueli , Wu Biyuan , Ma Zenghong , Zhou Kun , Wu Xiaohu
Published: April 2023

Chiral structures have been widely used in many fields, such as biosensing and analytical chemistry. In this paper, the chiral response of a composite structure consisting of α-MoO3 film and a silver (Ag) metasurface is studied. First, the effect of the thickness of α-MoO3 film on the circular dichroism (CD) is discussed, and it is found that CD can reach 0.93 at a wavelength of 9.6 µm when the thickness of α-MoO3 film is 6.075 µm. To better understand the physical mechanism, we analyze the transverse electric and transverse magnetic wave components in the transmitted wave for the whole structure and each layer. One can see that the strong chirality of the structure is attributed to the polarization conversion of α-MoO3 film and the selective transmissivity of Ag ribbons. In addition, the influence of the filling factor of the Ag ribbons on chirality is also studied. This work combines hyperbolic material α-MoO3 with Ag ribbons to enhance CD. Also, it provides greater freedom in the tuning of chirality. We believe that this work not only deepens the understanding of the chiral response of anisotropic materials, but also gives promise for its applications in the fields of polarization optics and biosensing.
Generalized Brewster angle-enhanced photonic spin Hall effect in an all-dielectric metasurface
Authors: Ma Zuhai , Lai Zheng , Lin Shuai , Hong Jiahao , Chen Yu , Zhou Xinxing
Published: April 2023

The enhancement of the photonic spin Hall effect (PSHE) is usually limited at horizontally polarized incidence and around the nonadjustable Brewster angle. In this Letter, a flexible method for enhancing the reflective PSHE with tunable incident angle under both vertically (V) and horizontally (H) polarized light has been theoretically explored. By using the multipole decomposition method, the variable generalized Brewster angle (GBA) is proven to be obtained under both V- and H-polarized light at different wavelengths in the all-dielectric metasurface. Then, owing to the large ratio of Fresnel coefficients at the GBA, the enhancement of PSHE in this Letter can not only be available for both V- and H-polarization, but also achieved at widely tunable incident angle and different operating wavelengths in the same metasurface. This work provides a simple method to achieve the flexible enhancement of PSHE and offers a novel way for designing a functional spin-based photonic device.
Planar Fourier optics for slab waveguides, surface plasmon polaritons, and 2D materials
Authors: Wetherfield Benjamin , Wilkinson Timothy D.
Published: April 2023

Recent experimental work has demonstrated the potential of combining the merits of diffractive and on-chip photonic information processing devices in a single chip by making use of planar (or slab) waveguides. Here, arguments are developed to show that diffraction formulas familiar from 3D Fourier optics can be adapted to 2D under certain mild conditions on the operating speeds of the devices in question. In addition to serving those working in on-chip photonics, this Letter provides analytical tools for the study of surface plasmon polaritons, surface waves, and the optical, acoustic, and crystallographic properties of 2D materials.
Efficient adiabatic-coupler-based silicon nitride waveguide crossings for photonic quantum computing
Authors: Sommer Timo , Mange Nirav , Wegmann Peter , Poot Menno
Published: April 2023

Optical integrated quantum computing protocols, in particular using the dual-rail encoding, require that waveguides cross each other to realize, e.g., SWAP or Toffoli gate operations. We demonstrate efficient adiabatic crossings. The working principle is explained using simulations, and several test circuits are fabricated in silicon nitride (SiN) to characterize the coupling performance and insertion loss. Well-working crossings are found by experimentally varying the coupler parameters. The adiabatic waveguide crossing (WgX) outperforms a normal directional coupler in terms of spectral working range and fabrication variance stability. The insertion loss is determined using two different methods: using the transmission and by incorporating crossings in microring resonators. We show that the latter method is very efficient for low-loss photonic components. The lowest insertion loss is 0.18 dB (4.06%) enabling high-fidelity NOT operations. The presented WgX represents a high-fidelity (96.2%) quantum NOT operation.